The Edmonton Elks home opener is this Saturday, and the organization will be hosting a mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic before kick-off against the Ottawa Redblacks.
From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, fans will be able to visit the mobile vaccination clinic (MVC) get their first or second vaccine dose outside Gate 9.
“We’re all excited for the return of football and the opportunity to welcome fans back to The Brick Field at Commonwealth Stadium this weekend,” Elks president and CEO Chris Presson said in a Thursday news release.
“By partnering to bring the MVC to our home opener, we’re happy to provide fans an opportunity to be vaccinated, as we collectively look to move past COVID-19.”
The Elks organization is working with the Industry for Vaccination (IVF) Alberta Coalition to make the clinic happen.
“We are honoured to be bringing the mobile vaccination clinic to so many Albertans across the province while working with the government and industry partners,” said Matthew Cox, president and CEO of TRAXX Holdings Inc., an IFV partner and the provider of the MVC motor coach.
“It is our mandate to help vaccinate as many Albertans as possible, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Elks to do so.”
While the MVC will be set up outside the main gate, you don’t need a ticket to the game to receive the vaccine, an Elks spokesperson said. Anyone in the area looking to receive a dose can do so.
Before the game, the mobile clinic will be offering COVID-19 vaccination from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot of the Abottsfield-Penny McKee branch of the Edmonton Public Library. The library’s address is 3210 118 Avenue.
Commonwealth Stadium COVID-19 safety protocols
There will be a number of safety protocols in place at Commonwealth Stadium this Elks season in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.
“We are thrilled to see the stadium reopen to the public and the return of CFL football and other large-scale events. It’s been a long time coming,” Heather Seutter, director of Commonwealth Stadium, said.
“The health and safety of fans, players and staff is our priority and we will be implementing a number of new practices and policies as football season returns this weekend.”
Edmonton transit provides transportation directly to the venue and masks are still required on all transit vehicles until the end of August.
The stadium will be operating at full capacity for the 2021 season with no separations required in seating areas. The city “highly recommends” wearing a mask or face covering at the stadium, but it is not required.
Hand sanitizer will be available around the stadium, and additional cleaning and sanitizing measures will be in place before, during and after each game.
While physical distancing is not required, it is recommended.
There will be no re-entry permitted during the games and smoking will only be allowed in designated areas and Commonwealth Stadium is strongly encouraging fans to not bring any type of bags in an effort to reduce congestion at the gates.
Fans will be able to carry a clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag size 12”x12”x 6”. Small clutch bags, which do not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″ in size, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the stadium. Medical exceptions may also apply.
All tickets will be offered through mobile ticking this year to avoid touchpoints and 50/50 tickets will be available for purchase from a mobile device.
Anyone who is feeling ill or has tested positive for COVID-19 in the previous 10 days is asked to stay home. If someone starts to develop symptoms while at the game, the city says to inform a stadium staff member and leave the venue immediately.
Full details about the Elks and Commonwealth Stadium’s safety protocols can be found on the team’s website.