Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Large arenas and stadiums in New York State can re-open at 10% capacity beginning Tuesday, Feb. 23, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday. Cuomo regarded large arenas and stadiums to be buildings with more than a 10,000-seat capacity.
All visitors at venues must test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of the event. Face coverings, social distancing, and temperature checks will be required.
This announcement could directly impact teams like the Buffalo Sabres in the National Hockey League and the Rochester Americans in the American Hockey League. KeyBank Center in Buffalo has a max capacity of 19,070 fans for hockey games, while Blue Cross Arena in Rochester has a max capacity of 10,662 for hockey games.
The Sabres did release a statement on Governor Cuomo's announcement on Wednesday:
"Gov. Cuomo's announcement providing the opportunity to allow Sabres fans back to KeyBank Center is a great step forward.
"We continue to work closely with the New York State and Erie County Departments of Health to ensure a safe, healthy and fan friendly environment to enjoy Sabres hockey.
"Ticketing information and game-day safety protocols will be announced as they become available."
The Amerks also released their own statement on the matter:
The first home game for the Sabres after Feb. 23 will take place on Thursday, Feb. 25 against the New Jersey Devils. Rochester's first home game after Feb. 23 is scheduled for Wednesday, March 3 against the Utica Comets.
The Sabres were forced to pause their season last week as nine players were placed on the NHL's COVID-19 Protocols list. It is unclear whether any of those players have tested positive for COVID-19, or if they were deemed as close contacts of anyone who tested positive for the coronavirus.
In addition, the team announced last Thursday that head coach Ralph Krueger tested positive for COVID-19, and general manager Kevyn Adams revealed on Tuesday that he is symptomtic.
Buffalo was able to return to practice on Tuesday, and are currently scheduled to play their next game on Monday, Feb. 15 against the New York Islanders at KeyBank Center.
Wednesday's announcement could also eventually impact the Buffalo Bisons and Rochester Red Wings in Minor League Baseball this spring. However, their schedules for the upcoming 2021 season has not been announced.
The governor lauded testing efforts for Buffalo Bills playoff games ahead of Wednesday's announcement.
Stay tuned for the latest on this developing story...