Arkansas may soon be able to welcome more Razorback fans to check out Hogs basketball, baseball and other spring-semester sports.

On Friday, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson shared that the state looks to be updating its policies related to COVID-19 management. Hutchinson’s announcement that mask mandates may be lifted on March 31 (if the state numbers meet certain goals) grabbed the most headlines, but the Governor also stated that he is downgrading “directives” for restaurants, bars, gyms and other venues to “guidelines.” While the directives carried potential penalties if not enforced, the “guidelines” would be treated as “strong recommendations.”

Nikki Chavanelle of HawgBeat points out that this opens the door for UA to potentially increase capacity at Bud Walton Area, Baum-Walker Stadium and other Razorback sports venues. Arkansas AD Hunter Yurachek tweeted a statement Friday afternoon reacting to the Governor’s announcement.

“We are encouraged by the update shared by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson today regarding the progress our state has made related to vaccination and the declining number of new COVID cases. We will continue to work with the Arkansas Department of Health to determine what adjustments may be made to our existing event plans based on today’s announcement. In an effort to maintain the health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans, it will be important that we continue to wear masks and adhere to other health guidelines. We are cautiously optimistic that by working together we will be able to welcome more Razorback fans to our sporting events in the weeks to come.”

Yuracheck stating “in the weeks to come” indicates the school may not adjust attendance policy before the end of the basketball season, but it’s an encouraging sign that more Arkansas fans may soon be able to cheer on the Diamond Hogs in person.

[H/T Nikki Chavanelle, HawgBeat]