Safety fears mean barren bleachers at SC games

[January 29, 2010]  CENTRAL, S.C. (AP) -- Well, at least there won't be any hecklers.

The bleachers will be barren Friday at a high school basketball doubleheader between two rivals in northwestern South Carolina. School officials say no fans will be allowed in because of safety concerns.

Attendance at the boys' and girls' varsity games in the town of Central will be limited to players, coaches, officials, game personnel, school administrators, police and the media.

Seneca Police Chief John Covington says he supports the decision because disturbances and violence have recently been spilling into the parking lot and neighborhoods after games.

School officials say they met with police and the South Carolina High School League on the decision.

[Associated Press]

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