Thursday’s federal court decision allowing Gov. Tom Wolf’s limits on gatherings to stand affected Jim Thorpe as it prepared to host a home football game at Panther Valley.

The school district decided to allow the parents of some football players to attend the game while complying with the 250-person limit on gatherings.

“We’re glad our parents are going to be able to watch their kids play,” said TJ Garritano, school board member. “You don’t know, with outbreaks, when the season could end. These parents could never get to see their kids play.”

Prior to the decision by the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals, Jim Thorpe planned to allow 750 people at Friday’s game. The game against North Schuylkill took place at Panther Valley Football Stadium, because Jim Thorpe Olympian Field is under construction.

Parents and officials were confident that they could host 750 people safely at the stadium.

After Thursday’s decision came down, the superintendent announced there would be no fans in the stands for the game.

“We wanted to comply with the governor’s order and Department of Health. The big problem was, how do we do this in a way that’s fair,” said Superintendent John Rushefski.

But coaches and board members worked together to come up with a plan. They decided two parents for each of the 24 players who play varsity only.

No band, cheerleaders, or away fans will be in attendance.

Junior varsity games have been taking place with parents in attendance, while still complying with the 250 person limit.

The news was welcomed by parents who were disappointed they were going to miss their first opportunity to see the team in person.

“Everybody’s been anxious and excited for this game because we’ve been away for the first three games. We haven’t been able to go to any games,” said Angie Bailor, whose son is a senior on the team.

While there has been extra TV coverage this year, parents prefer being in the stands. Bailor said they feel helpless if they are watching on TV and their child is injured.

“To sit at home and watch that, it’s a jaw dropping feeling. You clench your stomach. You’re an hour and a half away and you don’t know,” she said.

Kyle Spotts, director of student services and facilities planning for Lehighton, said he has been instructed to follow the motion that was approved at the school board meeting on Monday. That motion was to provide to two tickets to each student participating in the sporting event.