Robert Morris won't have fans at hockey, basketball games through end of December

Robert Morris will not have fans at hockey and basketball games through the end of December, the school announced Monday.

The announcement extends a policy that was put in place Nov. 19, the day after Allegheny County issued an advisory to stop social gatherings. Whether fans will be allowed in attendance at January home games will be determined at a later date, the school said.

The men’s hockey team has played four games at RMU Island Sports Complex. The women’s team’s home opener against Lindenwood is scheduled for Thursday.

The men’s basketball team was scheduled to open at home against Point Park on Nov. 25, but the game was postponed because of positive covid tests from Colonials team personnel.

The Horizon League home opener for the men’s basketball team against Cleveland State is scheduled for Dec. 19 at the UPMC Events Center. The women’s basketball team’s home opener against IUPUI is set for Jan. 1.

The Horizon League has announced that all games through the end of December will be played without fans.

“Our fans have been fervent in their support of RMU Athletics since the day I was chosen to lead the department, and that has never been more apparent as we steer the global pandemic,” athletic director Chris King said in a press release. “The health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and supporters both near and far continues to guide everything we do during this difficult time. We can’t wait for the opportunity to welcome fans and supporters to RMU Athletics events again, but we will do so when it is safe for everyone.”