FAIRMONT STATE ATHLETIC EVENTS SPECTATOR POLICY UPDATE: 

Throughout the pandemic, Fairmont State University has led the fight against the virus, and to mitigate the spread of COVID throughout our athletic teams, student-athletes were tested, per Mountain East Conference recommendations, as they returned to campus for practice and games approximately one month ago. That exercise was a testament to our responsibility to provide an environment where student-athletes can practice and compete safely.     

Based on guidance from medical experts associated with Fairmont State University, its athletic department, and the MEC, the institution has determined that the timing is appropriate to reduce previous restrictions. Fairmont State's primary responsibility within its policies is to maintain the ability to conduct in-person learning and to allow students to engage in their normal activities, including athletics. Following the successful resocialization of its campus community, and improving recent public health trends, we feel confident in advancing to the next phase of spectator policy. 

We will now be welcoming all our loyal Falcon fans back to our facilities effective Saturday, January 29th. The updated policy will affect Fairmont State home athletic events in Joe Retton Arena and the Feaster Center pool.  

As a reminder, Fairmont State University is continuing to operate under advanced COVID-19 protocols, which does require masking in all indoor and outdoor spaces regardless of vaccination status. Student-athletes may remove their masks when they are actively participating in practice, warming up for a competition, or competing.  

Fans who decide to attend our home events must follow guidelines in place by the CDC and Marion County Health Department, including the following:  

• All spectators in attendance at any home indoor athletic event this year are asked to follow our advanced protocols and always wear a well-fitting mask, regardless of vaccination status. We would prefer if everyone wore an N95 or KN95 mask. All spectators are asked to supply their own masks and facial coverings when attending these events.   

• Spectators should try and remain socially distant from other fans (a family unit may sit or stand together), if possible.   

• Spectators are encouraged not to interact with players, coaches, or staff members in close contact before, during, or after the contest.   

• Animals other than documented service animals are not permitted.   

• Noncompliance with COVID19 safety measures may be grounds for removal from the venue.   

• Doors will open 45 minutes before the first contest of the day.  

For those ticket holders who had purchased tickets for the contests listed below, Fairmont State will refund the cost of the tickets for games, or ticket holders may also request to donate the cost of those tickets to the men's or women's basketball programs.  

We are grateful to our loyal fans, our parents, and the community who have stood with us during this trying time, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to the Joe Retton Arena to cheer the Fighting Falcons to victory.