Long Island Ducks cancel 2020 season

According to the team, “The decision was reached following numerous unsuccessful attempts to gain exemption from the State of New York’s decision last week not allowing fans into professional sports venues.”

News 12 Staff

Jun 30, 2020, 4:34 PM

Updated 1,560 days ago

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The Long Island Ducks announced Tuesday that they are canceling their 2020 season.
According to a statement from the team, “The decision was reached following numerous unsuccessful attempts to gain exemption from the State of New York’s decision last week not allowing fans into professional sports venues.”
The team says it was seeking permission to open at 25% capacity at Bethpage Ballpark – which was proposed in Long Island’s phase four reopening.
“We tried everything in our power to start the season despite the pandemic and all the challenges it presented,” said Ducks CEO and Founder Frank Boulton in prepared remarks. “We presented a safety plan detailing the protocols we would follow to provide the safest possible way for Long Islanders to enjoy a night out. Without fans, we cannot move forward in 2020. At this time, we have not gained approval from New York State to open our gates to fans. We are very disappointed that this is the result, but we look forward to seeing everyone at the ballpark again in 2021.”
The Ducks were working with County Executive Steve Bellone who wanted to see baseball come back to Suffolk this summer. He also submitted a readiness plan several weeks ago.
"We were really hoping to give everyone that opportunity this summer, but the reality is that is not going to happen. The plan was thorough...it made sense, we could do this safely," Bellone said during his daily briefing. "I would not have supported the plan if I did not believe it made sense...but in light in what we're seeing around the country...that they're taking a more cautious approach here, and I understand that."
Anyone with single-game tickets can review the team’s policy on ticketing on their website.