HOLLAND, Ohio — High school football is back in northwest Ohio and that has some schools thinking about safety.
The sport and the activities that surround it continues to be popular throughout the area as a source of community pride.
Of course that means big crowds, as students, parents, alumni, and other community members gather at stadiums to cheer on their teams, cheerleading squads, and bands.
This year however, there is a lingering sense that more needs to be done to make sure the games are safe for everyone.
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, shots rang out at a Whitmer High School football game in north Toledo, sending hundreds in the stands scrambling to safety and three people wounded.
To that end, Springfield Schools is taking a proactive stance this football season.
According to Springfield Schools Community Liaison Kristina White, the Village of Holland will be closing down a portion of Hall Street, behind the home bleachers before, during, and after all home games, until the crowds have dispersed.
Springfield school officials consulted with Holland police before coming to the decision.
Hall St. will be closed at 6 p.m. on Friday nights when the Blue Devils are hosting games.
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