While the high school volleyball championships are an exciting time for many South Dakotans, it’s difficult to see those smiling faces at the state tournaments this fall. That’s because a majority of the people in attendance are wearing masks.
Because of the world that exists today, Creative Printing, whose main office is in Huron, reached out to tournament officials about the idea of doing a special award.
“We recognize people who are wearing masks, social distancing, doing the best they can, and kind of making them the ‘fan of the game.’ We just award them to who we think is doing right with the COVID experience that we have here,” said Brookings activities director Randy Soma.
Creative Printing also has a branch office in Brookings, so this year both Brookings and Huron are participating with an award called ‘Covid Crusher.’ Brookings is hosting the ‘AA’ tournament, while Huron is hosting the ‘B’s.’
Even though it’s important to recognize people who are helping control the spread of COVID-19, Soma believes it’s equally as important to remind people that it takes everyone.
“There are some people here who are not doing that, and it’s helping promote them to do it,” explained Soma. “We want to recognize it, but also remind people that that’s why we’re doing it. We want to keep sports going, keep the activities going, and that’s the best way we can do it.”
Recipients of the ‘COVID Crusher’ award are presented with a special certificate and are then recognized with a special announcement during each match. Along with certificates, Huron is also incorporating special plaques at their location.
