The Missouri State High School Activities Association announced Thursday afternoon (March 12) that it will limit the amount of spectators at this year’s Show-Me Showdown, the state basketball tournament.
After consulting with the Greene County Director of Public Health and Missouri State University in Springfield, where the boys and girls final fours are to be held for all five classes, MSHSAA officials said they are making adjustments for this weekend’s championships for Classes 1-3.
Citing the one confirmed case of COVID-19 in the state, MSHSAA is issuing 150 wristbands to the fans of each high school participating in the final four. Any tickets previously purchased are now void. Only fans who have a wristband will be allowed in the John Q. Hammons Arena.
In addition to limiting spectators, only the semifinals and championship games will be played. All third-place games have been cancelled.
Working members of the media with approved credentials have access to the games, which will all be streamed online, for a fee, at www.mshsaa.tv.
On Thursday afternoon, Jefferson College spokesman Roger Barrantine said after talking with MSHSAA officials, Saturday’s Class 4 boys and girls quarterfinals will be held as scheduled at the Hillsboro campus without any restrictions on who can attend. Notre Dame of Cape Girardeau plays Rockwood Summit in the girls game at 1 p.m. and Notre Dame plays Westminster Christian Academy in the boys game at 2:45 p.m.
“We continue to stay in close contact with MSHSAA,” Barrantine said. “If they offer guidance on limited or essential involvement, we’ll follow their advice. We could have recommendations from the county or state level that would overrule what we’re doing with all activities.”
Jefferson College hosted two Class 5 sectionals on Wednesday night, with no restrictions on attendance. Barrantine said prior to the games, cleaning crews disinfected all door knobs, bathroom areas, or anywhere people’s hands touched.
“Cleaning crews are working around the clock on these areas,” he said. “We ask everyone to be vigilant in terms of hygiene and care. We’ll be as quick and transparent as we can.”
There aren’t any restrictions yet for Jeffco’s baseball or softball teams, which are in season.
“At this point, we will host all scheduled events,” Barrantine said.