Public School Sports Teams Can Now Play In Front Of Spectators

BAYSIDE, QUEENS — Public school athletes are now able to compete in front of spectators, the Public School Athletic League, or PSAL, announced on Thursday.

This policy change comes about a week after athletes and coaches — including many from Bayside — protested the city's previous no-spectators policy, saying that it put public school athletes at a disadvantage for college scholarships since they couldn't play in front of scouts.

"The Catholic schools can [have scouts]. They've had college coaches in in September. They've had college coaches in in October. Public schools, their kids, no chance," legendary Cardozo High School basketball coach, Ron Naclerio, told CBSNY at the time.

The amended policy, however, now allows schools to invite spectators to indoor PSAL competitions in limited numbers, as long as they stand three-feet apart, wear masks, complete a health screening, and show proof of vaccination against the coronavirus.

Spectators under the age of 12, and student-spectators, do not have to show proof of vaccination, according to the PSAL. People attending outdoor competitions also aren't required to be vaccinated.

In an email announcing the policy shift, the athletic league said that it appreciated the hard work of PSAL principals, athletic directors, and coaches.

"Due to your tremendous work, students throughout the city have been able to safely return to interscholastic competition," the email read.

Related Article: Cardozo Athletes Protest COVID-Related Sports Restrictions