LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Rebels fans are excited. They’ll likely be able to watch their team play football at Allegiant Stadium this year.
The excitement of Rebels football may be coming back soon. Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak loosening restrictions Tuesday, allowing gatherings of up to 250 people with large venues allowed to have more with the state’s permission.
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This opens the door for fans to attend UNLV football games at Allegiant Stadium and cheer for their players.
“They’re motivated. It’s inspiring for them and they get to go out and do what they chose to do when they came to the university and that is play football and be a student-athlete," said Daren Libonati, a former kicker for the Rebels football team.
Libonati also used to run special events at Sam Boyd Stadium and says he believes a limited number of fans can be safely seated at Allegiant Stadium.
“A venue like that is no different than going to Walmart. You put your mask on, you create your space and you’re fine,” he said.
Under the governor’s new rules, capacity would be capped to 10%. That’s about 6,500 fans max at the stadium.
The governor’s new orders asking for sections to be divided with no more than 250 people in each one and at least 25 feet apart. Each section should minimize by sharing concession areas and amenities like bathrooms.
“These sections have to be distinct and independent to prevent individuals who are in one assigned area from moving to another assigned area,” Gov. Sisolak said.
Libonati says stadium logistics require plans for different capacities for different events. He believes the staff at Allegiant Stadium will be prepared.
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“You could create enough space in a 65,000-seat stadium for 6,500 people. I don’t believe that would be an issue whatsoever,” he said.
UNLV says it has developed a plan and is waiting for state approval. Fans would be required to wear masks and practice social distancing.
Tickets would be sold on a game-by-game basis with season ticket holders and rebel athletic fund members getting first priority.
“It gives UNLV the opportunity to generate some income to cover the costs and expenses to facilitate that game. At least it’s a push in the right direction,” Libonati said.
When the Rebels first home game is going to happen remains to be seen, but their season will start on Oct. 24.
