Seattle Mariners Welcome Back Fans with Support from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

On April 1st, the Seattle Mariners welcomed 9,000 fans back for Opening Night, the first game played in front of fans in 550 days. The Mariners invited 50 frontline workers from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health to participate in the pre-game ceremonies by creating a heart in the in-field in an emotional tribute. Returning fans to the ballpark revealed the endemic nature of healthcare system services to ballclubs, illustrating the “transfer-of-trust” resulting from working together for a healthy community. 

As the Mariners trusted Partner in Health, VMFH was called upon to help guide the club in understanding and applying guidelines from the CDC, state & local authorities and Major League Baseball to help welcome fans back to the game they love while reducing risks presented by COVID-19. 

VMFH infectious disease expert Karen Dykes, ARNP met weekly with the club to share best practices and help interpret local and national guidelines. She was celebrated by the club on Opening Night, throwing out the first pitch and joining the broadcast team in the press box for an in-game interview by ROOT Sports to share how the club is mitigating risks in the ballpark with their tv audience. 

This collaboration was a great example of what  ‘Partners in Health’ can do working together to build a healthier community.