Penguins fans won't be able to attend January games at PPG Paints Arena
The Pittsburgh Penguins announced Monday they will not be able to have fans at the four scheduled home games at PPG Paints Arena in January.
Protocols put in place by Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, as well as local officials, limit gatherings to 500 people at indoor arenas.
Penguins and arena staff, as well as players, coaches and hockey operations staffs from both teams, in addition to media, broadcasters and broadcast crews, will be included in that total.
Penguins officials said a limited amount of family and friends of players and team personnel will be permitted to attend as capacity allows.
“We look forward to welcoming fans back to PPG Paints Arena as soon as state safety protocols and capacity-limits allow for it,” Kevin Acklin, chief operating officer of the Penguins, said in a news release. “We will remain in regular contact with state and local authorities, as well as the NHL, and will make an announcement when fans are permitted to attend. The health and safety of our fans and players will always be our top priority.”
The Penguins’ home opener is at noon Jan. 17 against the Capitals. They also host the Capitals on Jan. 19 and will welcome the Rangers on Jan. 22 and 24.
Penguins officials said they will be in direct contact with season ticket holders regarding their options.
Bill Hartlep is the TribLive sports editor. A Pittsburgh native and Point Park graduate, he joined the Trib in 2004, covering high school sports. He held various editing roles before assuming his current position in 2019. He can be reached at bhartlep@triblive.com.
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