With increased capacity allowed by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, high school football coaches are reacting to the news.

Albemarle head coach Richard Davis said “it was the right decision by our governor, and to me it was an easy decision to make. Parents want to be able to see their kids play and this keeps families from making tough decisions as to who is going to watch which game.”

Davis also said “it also goes without saying that more people in the stands will generate more revenue for schools to offset some of the losses we’ve incurred. Now we just need everyone to follow guidelines and enjoy the games.”

The Bulldogs play Friday at Chatham Central.

Talking about the northern end of Stanly and increased capacity, North Stanly head coach Scott Crisco said, “I’m all for it. At least now our parents and families can come watch their son play. This community needs high school football, and high school football needs our community at the games. It’s a step in the right direction.”

North was scheduled to play Friday at West Stanly, but the game was postponed due to COVID-19 protocols.

The only team which will get to play this week is South Stanly who hosts South Davidson at 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

“The fans are dying to see football just as bad as the players want to play,” South head coach Ryan Ochier said. “I have had several people ask how they can get tickets for tonight’s game since it is sold out already. They just have to wait one week.”

The defending Stanly Cup champions, West Stanly, will not be in action until March 12 when the Colts open Rocky River Conference play at home against Forest Hills.