The Hamilton Tiger-Cats just became the first CFL team to require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for fans attending home games. The rule goes into effect on September 6th, when the Tiger-Cats host the Toronto Argonauts at Tim Hortons Field. Not only will fans have to follow these guidelines, but the same goes for employees, event staff, and the media.

As of August 20th, the Canadian government has reported that 71.9% of the country’s total population has received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 63.8% are fully vaccinated. Considering the vaccination rate continues to climb, attendance at Tiger-Cats games shouldn’t be much of a problem. It also depends on how many fans are willing to comply with the new precautions, though. 

Here is a piece of the statement from the Tiger-Cats website explaining why they chose to move in this direction:

“Recognizing that Tim Hortons Field is a central gathering point for many Hamiltonians and others in the surrounding area, the Tiger-Cats and Forge FC will continue to put the health and safety of its employees, partners and fans at the forefront in an effort to provide a safe and secure environment at the stadium at all times. Further details on the implementation of these new health and safety protocols at Tim Hortons Field will be provided in the coming days/weeks.”

Tiger-Cats Staff

This change was clearly made to benefit the health and well-being of everybody around the Tiger-Cats stadium. Other teams should consider putting forward a similar effort to help stop the spread of the virus. Recently, the CFL dealt with its first suspension of a game due to COVID-19. With the season already being shortened from its original length, rescheduling games is even harder than it used to be. Rules like the ones Hamilton has put in place are only trying to make this CFL season as successful as possible.