The Washington state governor’s office has now issued guidelines under the “Safe Start” program which allow for the gradual reopening of certain businesses, including professional sports, as King County moves into Phase 1.5.
The Seahawks, who practice the Virginia Mason Athletic Center, must adhere to the mandates below that apply to all professional indoor and outdoor sporting activities.
As of June 5, the National Football League has also provided that coaching staff may return to club facilities.
RESTART COVID-19 REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
“All professional sporting activities, including back-office operations of up to 50 people, unless a county’s then-current phase permits a greater number of people, full team practices, and spectator-less games and competitions, can resume on June 5, 2020, regardless of phase, if all of the following conditions are met,” reads the proclamation.
Good news: 14 counties advanced to a new phase today.
🟩 7 counties moved to Phase 3
🟨 6 moved to Phase 2
🟧* King county moved to a modified Phase 1 pic.twitter.com/bFSmoJK0n0— Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) June 5, 2020
Here are the specific requirements all professional sporting organizations must follow:
• The organization follows both the league-wide and team-specific “return to play” safety plans.
• The league-wide plan is approved by the player’s association or union representing players of the team.
• The team must report in advance to its respective county health department the dates when full team practices and spectator-less pre-season games will occur.
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