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Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test will be required by fans to attend an Edmonton Elks game as of Oct. 15.
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The football club announced the vaccine policy on Monday morning, becoming one of the last two teams in the Canadian Football League to implement a vaccine requirement.
Fans will need to provide proof of vaccination, with the second dose received at least 14 days prior to the date of the game, before entering Commonwealth Stadium. If a ticket holder can’t provide proof, a negative COVID-19 test collected within 48 hours of the scheduled game start time will be accepted. Those under 12 will be exempt from the requirements.
“As we continue to navigate the ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19, the Elks believe this policy is essential to delivering a safe environment for our fans and staff, as we continue to play an important role in bringing our community together,” the Elks said in a statement Monday morning.
All Elks business operations and front office employees will be required to be fully vaccinated. Game day staff, along with stadium and event staff, will be subject to the same requirements as fans. The new mandate will only come into effect as of Oct. 15, meaning the next two home games in September won’t be subject to the policy.
The move comes as the Edmonton Elks continue to deal with a COVID-19 outbreak among the players with 13 positive cases. There haven’t been any new cases reported for three days.
The Elks join the Edmonton Oilers in requiring proof of vaccination or negative test for fans to attend games, with the Rogers Place policy announced last week.
