It took a petition, with over 8000 signatures, but finally, after nearly 19 months, fans are back in the stands at NAIT.
Due to the pandemic, only players and staff were allowed at games. While most professional and amateur sports leagues have allowed fans back, the Alberta College Athletics Conference (ACAC) held firm with its decision not to allow fans. A petition was circulated and signed by thousands of players and fans, leading to the ACAC changing its mind allowing teams to decide if they would allow fans.
NAIT welcomed back hockey, volleyball and basketball fans for the teams’ final preseason games.
“The decision came down from the ACAC because restrictions have been changing all over the place, and they decided they wanted athletes to have the full college experience, so fans are now allowed back,” Alex Galenza, the Athletics Events & Communications Coordinator at NAIT.
Galenza says the preseason games are a good way for her team to get ready for the regular season when they hope lots of people will attend
“We are doing an eased approach right now with the NAIT Ooks. Right now, you can come; we are not promoting games but starting with our home opener on November 12 for the arena, and then the home opener for the gym on November 19 will be open full-fledged for fans, and we will also be promoting those.”
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 17. NAIT staff and students get in for free.
