ARIZONA RATTLERS

Arizona Rattlers to allow full fan capacity at Phoenix Suns Arena

May 4, 2021, 9:35 AM

(Tom Kuebel/Arizona Sports)...

(Tom Kuebel/Arizona Sports)

(Tom Kuebel/Arizona Sports)

The Arizona Rattlers became the first team in the Valley to announce full capacity for their 2021 home games at Phoenix Suns Arena.

“We are used to winning in this building. We just looked at COVID as our next opponent,” team president and head coach Kevin Guy said in a press release sent out Monday. “So after having several discussions at the league level and with the arena, we collaborated on a plan that would allow for us to create the safest environment possible for our players, coaches, corporate partners and fans to return to the games.

“Playing without fans was not an option, so we wanted our organization to set an example and put a strong plan in place for a safe and successful return to play.”

The Rattlers’ home opener is slated for June 12 against the Tucson Sugar Skulls.

The season was pushed back by the Indoor Football League in order to allow fans back in teams’ respective buildings. It usually starts in March.

The release adds the decision comes after Guy implemented numerous health and safety protocols for the team this offseason. Fans will still need to wear a mask at all times while inside Phoenix Suns Arena, except when eating or drinking.

Over 60 players, coaches and front office members were tested for the virus during the team’s first day of training camp. None tested positive for COVID-19.

“From day one, all of our players and coaches bought in, because it came down to playing the games,” Guy said.

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