GAMECOCK ATHLETICS NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATES

 

UPDATE: March 8, 2022

Effective immediately, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) is suspending surveillance testing for COVID regardless of vaccination status. This means that institutions who are not members of the SEC are no longer required to test unvaccinated team members prior to competing against a University of South Carolina varsity team. COVID testing continues to be recommended for those who are symptomatic. Athletes and staff who test positive must have completed the CDC required 5-day isolation period.

UPDATE: January 27, 2022 @ Noon EST

2021-22 USC COVID Protocol Attestation

The COVID-19 testing protocol described below is required for institutions who are not members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The purpose is to ensure that non-SEC member schools who are competing against the University of South Carolina are following screening and other mitigation strategies to minimize the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. If your institution is unable to commit to the protocol below, contact Delphine Bigony (dbigony@sc.edu) immediately.

Institutions must commit to follow this protocol as a requirement to any competition against a University of South Carolina varsity sport. Furthermore, competing institutions shall comply fully with the requirements for testing, surveillance, clinical, medical response plan, quarantine protocol and isolation protocols outlined below:

1. All student-athletes, coaches, support staff, medical staff and travel party who will participate in the contest (hereinafter referred to collectively “competition group”) against a University of South Carolina varsity athletics team will be PCR tested no more than 3 days prior to competition or Rapid Antigen tested within one day of competition (includes the practice day, if applicable).
   • Baseball and Softball. A PCR test must be completed no more than 3 days prior to a midweek game and no more than 3 days prior to the scheduled middle day of a weekend series. If the traveling team departs the day prior to the first game of a three-day series, the traveling institution shall undergo a PCR test the day prior to travel and may at their discretion undergo a Rapid Antigen or PCR test the day of travel. Examples:
     • Team A is playing at Team B on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Team A is traveling on Friday. Team A would conduct a PCR test on Thursday and obtain results Friday prior to departure. Team B would also conduct a PCR test on Thursday.
     • Team A is playing at Team B on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Team A is traveling on Thursday. Team A would conduct a PCR test on Wednesday and obtain results prior to departure on Thursday. Team A at its discretion may also conduct a Rapid Antigen or PCR Test on Thursday. Team B would also conduct a PCR test on Thursday.
2. Testing Protocol Exemptions. The following individuals are not required to be tested for COVID-19:
   • Athletes or staff who are at least two weeks since their final vaccine dose AND the individual is asymptomatic.
   • Athletes or staff who have completed the CDC required 5 day isolation period and are within 90 days of a positive test are exempt from this protocol.
3. All coaches, staff, and non-competing student-athletes are required to wear a mask/neck gaiter in University buildings. Physical distancing should be employed to the extent possible. Competing student- athletes should wear a mask pre- and post-competition. All other individuals, including officials, are expected to wear a mask/neck gaiter in the competition area at all times.
4. All members of the competition group have not had a verified positive test within the past 6 days.
5. In the event a member of the USC’s varsity teams becomes symptomatic or has a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 in the 48 hours after a contest, the opponent(s) institution will be notified as soon as possible and consistent with SEC policy.
6. In the event a member of the opponent institution’s competition group becomes symptomatic or has a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 in the 48 hours after a contest, the opponent institution will notify USC as soon as possible and consistent with SEC policy.

UPDATE: September 23, 2020 @ 9:15 a.m. EDT

SEC SELECTS PAE TO COORDINATE COVID-19 TESTING

The Southeastern Conference has selected PAE to provide COVID-19 testing services for in-season fall sports at each of the 14 SEC campuses. The Conference and PAE have been working together since mid-August to implement testing protocols for fall sports. Teaming with Premier Medical Group, PAE deployed test teams to each campus earlier this month to begin testing and all related logistics for SEC sports, Commissioner Greg Sankey said on Wednesday.

“The SEC is committed to the health of its student-athletes, coaches, officials and all others around our athletics events, and it is clear that testing is a critical element of maintaining a healthy environment for competition,” said Sankey. “For 65 years, PAE has tackled some of the world’s toughest challenges and has delivered effective solutions. This agreement represents a commitment on the part of the 14 universities of the SEC to deliver an effective solution in challenging times.”

The SEC secured PAE to standardize and provide the quality surveillance and pre-competition testing program across all 14 SEC campuses. In addition to the test teams at each SEC institution, PAE has dedicated staff members to manage the program including Western Division and Eastern Division program managers.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the current “gold standard” testing method for the COVID-19 virus as identified by the NCAA’s Resocialization of College Sports Guidelines. Alternative testing methods may be considered if sufficient data develops to support those methods.

PAE’s experience in complex project management and operational logistics was a key factor in SEC selecting the company as its COVID-19 test provider. With a global workforce of about 20,000 on all seven continents and in approximately 60 countries, PAE delivers a broad range of operational support services to meet the critical needs of its clients.

Having served on the front lines of the Ebola crisis, mobilizing and supporting treatment units and a field hospital in Liberia for USAID in 2014 and 2015 gives PAE an advantage in responding to the current pandemic. Today, PAE is serving the state of Georgia for COVID-19 care, having mobilized a 200-bed Alternate Care Facility in the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta in April 2020, which PAE continues to operate to meet the state’s ongoing demand during the pandemic.

UPDATE: September 22, 2020 @ 10 a.m. EDT

SEC TO USE KINEXON SAFEZONE TECHNOLOGY TO MODERNIZE COVID-19 CONTACT TRACING

The Southeastern Conference is providing cutting-edge wearable proximity devices, produced by global technology leader KINEXON, to its 14 member institutions to enhance COVID-19 contact tracing efforts during the 2020 football season, the Conference announced Tuesday.

KINEXON SafeZone technology includes lightweight, wearable devices, called SafeTags, which will be used conference-wide for football student-athletes at team facilities, during practices and games.

Approximately the size of a watch face, the device is worn as a wristband or on a lanyard or can be built into equipment for use on-field in practices and games.

“Through this new relationship with KINEXON, the SEC is committed to using innovative technology to provide solutions for use by our member institutions as we all work to support a healthy environment for student-athletes,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “KINEXON provides the SEC with a modern and effective solution to meet the unique contact tracing challenges associated with football.”

The SafeZone technology, which is being used by the NFL, has been chosen by the SEC for the sport of football due to the large number of participating student-athletes and the complexity of contact tracing unique to the sport. Determining proximity and length of interaction during football games presents an opportunity to use KINEXON’s innovative technology due to the number of players on the field and the speed of the game.

“SafeZone was created to meet the unprecedented challenges teams and leagues were facing while identifying solutions to return to play safely,” said KINEXON Executive Vice President Jim Garofalo. “By adopting our technology, the SEC remains at the forefront of innovation in college athletics. SafeZone will provide student-athletes with a proven modern approach to contact tracing.”

SafeZone uses ultra-wideband technology to accurately calculate the proximity between individuals by distance and length of time in order to perform quick and accurate contact tracing when someone is symptomatic or tests positive for COVID-19. The contact data is logged in a secure system and can be accessed to contact trace in the event of an infection.

The SafeTags can also be used to enforce physical distancing regulations by flashing a red warning light when people are within six feet of each other.

Contact tracing has long been recognized by public health experts as one of the most effective strategies to limit the spread of infectious disease. Contact tracing is a key element in the SEC’s COVID-19 management plan, among a set of protocols that employ testing, physical distancing and facility sanitization.

UPDATE: September 18, 2020 @ 2 p.m. EDT

SEC ESTABLISHES FOOTBALL GAME CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING POLICIES

The Southeastern Conference announced on Friday policies and parameters for football game cancellations, rescheduling of games and no-contest declarations for the 2020 season as the SEC continues to monitor developments related to COVID-19.

To play a football game, the SEC has established minimum thresholds of at least 53 scholarship players available to participate and the following minimum number of position scholarship players available to begin a game: seven (7) offensive linemen (which includes one center), one (1) quarterback and four (4) defensive linemen. The impacted institution has the option to play the game with fewer than the 53 scholarship players or fewer than the minimum number of position players listed above if it elects to do so. Otherwise, upon approval by the Commissioner, the game would be rescheduled or declared a no contest.

In addition, should an institution determine there are compelling reasons why it cannot begin a contest regardless of the scholarship and position minimums above, the institution may request to have the game rescheduled or, if the game cannot be rescheduled, for the game to be considered a no contest by presenting data (including total number of players not available to participate) outlining reasons why the game should not be played as scheduled. The final decision to reschedule or declare the game a no contest is vested only with the Commissioner.

The 2020 SEC football season is slated to begin September 26 and is comprised of a 10-game Conference-only schedule, with the SEC Football Championship Game to be played December 19 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, rescheduled from the original date of December 5. The schedule includes one mid-season open date for each school and an open date on December 12 for all schools.

Each SEC team will play 10 conference football games to include six games against division opponents and four games against non-division opponents.

UPDATE: September 14, 2020 @ 3 p.m. EDT

The Southeastern Conference has established new start dates and formats for the SEC men’s and women’s swimming & diving and equestrian seasons, as the 14 members of the SEC continue to monitor developments related to COVID-19, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey announced Monday.

The 2020 SEC men’s and women’s swimming & diving season will begin no earlier than October 1, 2020 and conclude no later than January 25, 2021 with regionalized competition permitted upon the adherence of opponents to SEC Medical Guidance Task Force Requirements for COVID-19 Management. Contests will be limited to dual-meet format unless alternative strategies are identified to limit the overall number of participants to ensure appropriate distancing. The number of events is at the discretion of each institution.

The 2020 SEC equestrian season will begin no earlier than October 15 and conclude no later than November 22, with team competition limited to SEC members or institutions within a conference member’s geographic region. Teams will be limited to no more than three team events.

The SEC announced in July that student-athletes in all sports who elect to not participate in intercollegiate athletics during the fall 2020 academic semester because of health and/or safety concerns related to COVID-19 will continue to have their scholarships honored by their university and will remain in good standing with their team.

The SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force continues to meet on policies and procedures for the safe return of student-athletes to competition, building on the NCAA’s Resocialization of College Sports Guidelines.

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SWIMMING & DIVING

• Season runs October 1, 2020 to January 25, 2021
• Regionalized competition permitted upon the adherence of opponents to SEC Medical Guidance Task Force Requirements for COVID-19 Management
• No restrictions on number of events

EQUESTRIAN

• Season runs October 15 to November 22, 2020
• Team competition limited to SEC members or institutions within a conference member’s geographic region
• No more than three team events permitted

UPDATE: August 28, 2020 @ 4 p.m. EDT

The Southeastern Conference has announced a number of game operations guidelines for its 14 member schools, following up on its initial medical protocols and fan guidelines announced earlier this month, as the Conference continues to monitor developments around the COVID-19 virus.

“The health of those around SEC athletics events remains in focus and, following advice of the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force, we continue to develop policies intended to provide a healthy return to competition,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “Some of these are difficult decisions but are a reality of our circumstances, and we will continue to develop and refine policies as we monitor issues related to COVID-19.”

ESSENTIAL ON-FIELD PERSONNEL

Essential personnel shall be the only individuals who have game day access to field and sideline, to include student-athletes, coaches and support personnel, game officials, medical personnel, limited institutional personnel, law enforcement, a limited number of photographers and contracted radio/TV personnel, and other limited personnel essential to the execution of the game.

All individuals with access to the team bench area must participate in the SEC COVID-19 testing protocol.

TICKETING

In football, where stadium capacities are reduced if fan attendance is permitted, the host institution shall provide the visiting institution a minimum of 500 tickets located in the lower level of the stadium. The visiting institution may be provided more or less than these 500 tickets upon mutual agreement of both institutions.

ON-FIELD PERFORMANCES

Bands will be restricted from performing on the field before games and at halftime. The policy will be revised during the year based on developments around COVID-19.

Where stadium capacities are reduced if fan attendance is permitted, visiting team bands and spirit squads shall be prohibited from attending games at SEC stadiums; SEC institutions shall have the discretion on whether their band and/or spirit squad attends a conference (SEC vs SEC) neutral site game.

On-field performances, presentations and recognitions shall be prohibited including, but not limited to, sponsor and donor recognitions and athletic department student-athlete and team recognitions.

DISINFECTION

Home institutions are required to disinfect home and visiting team spaces prior to each game utilizing approved disinfectants. These spaces shall include the locker rooms, coaches’ rooms, training rooms, sidelines, coaches’ booths and any additional areas provided to either team. The visiting team shall be allowed to further disinfect its spaces utilizing approved disinfectants after receiving approval from the home team’s facility staff on the disinfectants it desires to use. Upon completion of disinfection, the spaces and equipment must be locked down until the teams are granted initial access on Thursday or Friday prior to game day. Once both teams have accessed their spaces, only team staff are allowed inside the spaces and no outside individuals, including television personnel, are allowed access.

MEDIA OPERATIONS

Press box seating capacity shall be no more than 50% of current seating availability in the press box, and all individuals in the press box shall wear a face covering. If required by national, state and/or local guidelines, the press box seating capacity shall be less than 50% of the current seating available in accordance with the national, state and/or local guidelines.

Post-game press conferences will be conducted virtually.

UPDATE: August 27, 2020 @ 2 p.m. EDT

The Southeastern Conference has established new start dates and formats for the SEC cross country, soccer and volleyball seasons as well as the fall golf and tennis seasons, as the 14 members of the SEC continue to monitor developments related to COVID-19, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey announced Thursday.

The 2020 SEC men’s and women’s cross-country season will consist of a minimum of two and a maximum of three competitions prior to the SEC Championship in Baton Rouge on October 30. The season will take place between September 11 and October 23 and may include competition against non-conference opponents provided those schools adhere to SEC COVID-19 testing protocols.

The 2020 SEC soccer season will consist of an eight-match, Conference-only regular season over eight weeks of competition beginning September 18, followed by the SEC Championship, November 13-22, in Orange Beach, Alabama. All 14 schools will compete in the SEC Championship with each team guaranteed at least two matches.

“We are all excited to hear the news and to have some certainty,” South Carolina women’s soccer head coach Shelley Smith said. “We have been preparing to play and to now know the work we have been putting in will be able to be tested is great. We are looking forward to getting on the field and playing against our conference opponents.”

The 2020 SEC volleyball season will consist of an eight-match, Conference-only schedule over six weeks of competition beginning October 16 with each school competing against four opponents twice in the same weekend on back-to-back days.

“Our top priority remains to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for our student-athletes,” South Carolina volleyball head coach Tom Mendoza said. “We want our team to be in the best place mentally and physically, and that will be our focus now as we prepare for this format. I credit our team’s resiliency through this process, they have been training at a high level and will be excited to compete whenever the time comes.”

SEC soccer and volleyball teams will participate in spring competition as well, with details of formats contingent on final decisions by the NCAA to conduct spring championships in those sports.

For the 2020 fall segment of the men’s and women’s golf and men’s and women’s tennis seasons, SEC teams may compete in up to three team events beginning no earlier than October 1. SEC golf and tennis teams will be limited to events involving only SEC members or non-conference teams from the geographic region of the SEC school.

The SEC had previously announced in July that the sports of cross country, soccer and volleyball would be postponed through at least August 31.

In addition, fall practice activities and intra-squad games are permitted in the sports of baseball and softball, but exhibition games against outside competition is prohibited in the 2020 fall semester.

The SEC announced in July that student-athletes in all sports who elect to not participate in intercollegiate athletics during the fall 2020 academic semester because of health and/or safety concerns related to COVID-19 will continue to have their scholarships honored by their university and will remain in good standing with their team.

The SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force continues to meet on policies and procedures for the safe return of student-athletes to competition, building on the NCAA’s Resocialization of College Sports Guidelines.

More detailed information on South Carolina schedules, policies related to ticketing at home events and operational changes at venues due to COVID-19 will be posted as it becomes available at GamecocksOnline.com.

CROSS COUNTRY

• Season runs September 11-October 23
• Seven (7) weeks of competition
• Compete in a minimum two (2) events (maximum of three) prior to SEC Championships
• No restrictions on opponents; must adhere to SEC Testing protocol the week leading into competition
• No more than 10 teams may compete in a single race
• Schools may not compete in consecutive weeks

WOMEN’S SOCCER

• Season runs weekend of September 18-November 8 (eight total weeks)
• Eight (8) regular season matches plus at least two (2) matches at the SEC Tournament
• Regular season includes six (6) divisional opponents and two (2) crossover opponents (4 home/4 away)
• One (1) match per week – play dates will be either Friday, Saturday or Sunday based on campus activities & television.
• Matches may move to Thursday on the fifth weekend of the season for make-up dates.
• 14-team Conference Tournament – Nov. 13-22; each team guaranteed at least two (2) matches

VOLLEYBALL

• Season runs weekend of October 16-November 27
• Six (6) weeks of competition
• Compete against four (4) opponents; same opponent twice in the same weekend
• Eight (8) total matches

GOLF AND TENNIS

• Teams may compete in up to three team events
• Competition can take place no earlier than October 1
• Teams are limited to events involving only SEC members or non-conference teams from the school’s geographic region

UPDATE: August 21, 2020 @ 11:30 a.m. EDT

SEC Clarifies and Expands Health Measures for Student-Athletes

The Southeastern Conference has clarified and expanded its previously announced COVID-19 management requirements for the fall athletics season by specifying the cardiac evaluation requirements in its initial report and confirming a third weekly test prior to competition.

The SEC’s initial medical response plan for confirmed infected individuals called for a cardiac evaluation for those individuals returning to activity following isolation. The SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force has now specified the cardiac evaluation would mandate a troponin level, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram and a medical evaluation by a physician.

In addition, as part of the SEC’s COVID-19 management requirements announced previously, SEC members committed to enhanced testing that includes a minimum of two PCR tests per week during weeks of competition. The SEC, at the recommendation of the Task Force, has now confirmed a third rapid diagnostic test will be performed each week close to competition for sports with a high risk of close contact.

“We remain vigilant in monitoring the trends and effects of COVID-19 as we learn more about the virus, and this cardiac evaluation enhances the effectiveness of the protocols already in place,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “We are confident in our institutions’ ability to provide a healthy environment supported by rigorous testing and surveillance. Our student-athletes have indicated their desire to compete and it is our responsibility to make every effort to deliver a healthy and medically sound environment for providing that opportunity.”

As outlined in the initial COVID-19 management requirements of the Task Force, the SEC will coordinate centralized testing through a third-party provider to ensure consistency in surveillance and pre-competition testing.

The 14 members of the SEC have committed to honoring the scholarship of any student-athlete who chooses to opt out of playing the fall 2020 season due to concerns related to COVID-19.

UPDATE: August 7, 2020 @ 10 a.m. EDT

SEC ANNOUNCES INITIAL MEDICAL PROTOCOLS

Full SEC Fall Sports Requirements

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Southeastern Conference has announced its initial COVID-19 management requirements for the fall athletics season as recommended by the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force.

The Task Force has been meeting frequently since April to review and discuss information associated with the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on developing policies and protocols to guide membership decisions related to the healthy return of athletics activities, including team gatherings, practices, conditioning and competition, for SEC student-athletes and others associated with SEC athletics programs.

“Our Medical Task Force is producing an effective strategy for testing and monitoring, which complements the vigilant day-to-day efforts of our campuses to establish and maintain healthy environments in which our student-athletes can train and compete,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “Our health experts have guided us though each stage of preparation for the safe return of activity and, together with the medical staffs embedded within our athletics programs, we will continue to monitor developments around the virus and evolve our plan to meet the health needs of our student-athletes.”

The Task Force’s initial requirements for fall SEC sports include testing requirements, procedures for infections and contact tracing, and protocols for quarantine and isolation. Similar requirements will be developed for other SEC sports before their competition seasons begin.

Due to the constantly changing realities around the pandemic, the requirements and testing strategies developed by the Task Force will continue to be reviewed and updated as new information becomes available. The requirements are being developed as minimum standards for SEC programs to enact and serve to build on recommendations of the Autonomy 5 Medical Advisory Group and the NCAA’s Resocialization of College Sports Guidelines. The SEC anticipates an additional pre-season report from the SEC’s Task Force by August 31.

TESTING

• The SEC will coordinate centralized testing through a third-party provider to ensure consistency in surveillance and pre-competition testing. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the current standard testing method for the COVID-19 virus. Alternative testing methods may be considered if sufficient data develops to support those methods.
• In the sport of football, student-athletes and others in direct contact with the program will receive a PCR surveillance test at least twice weekly during competition, typically six days and three days prior to competition. The Task Force recommends exploring alternative testing methods that will accommodate a third test, in addition to the two required PCR tests, that will provide for the reliability and rapid response necessary for diagnostic testing in a timeframe closer to competition.
• In the sports of volleyball and soccer, student-athletes and others in direct contact with the program will receive a PCR surveillance test at least twice weekly during competition, with one to occur three days prior to the first competition of the week. The Task Force recommends exploring alternative testing methods that will accommodate a third test, in addition to the two required PCR tests, that will provide for the reliability and rapid response necessary for diagnostic testing in a timeframe closer to the first competition of the week.
• In the sport of cross country, student-athletes and others in direct contact with the program will receive a PCR surveillance test at least once per week during competition, with that test to occur three days prior to each competition.

MASKING

• In football, volleyball and soccer, all coaches, staff and non-competing personnel will be required to wear face coverings on the sideline and physical distancing will be employed to the extent possible.
• In cross country, competing student-athletes are required to wear a face covering at the starting line, which may be removed when proper distancing has been achieved. Coaches and staff associated with cross country competition are expected to utilize social distancing to the extent possible and will be required to wear a face covering during pre- and post-competition.

OTHER NOTES

• Each institution is required to designate a COVID-19 Protocol Oversight Officer who will be responsible for education and ensuring compliance with the SEC’s COVID-19 management requirements.
• The SEC announced in July that student-athletes in all sports who elect to not participate in intercollegiate athletics during the fall 2020 academic semester because of health and/or safety concerns related to COVID-19 will continue to have their scholarships honored by their university and will remain in good standing with their team.

UPDATE: July 30, 2020 @ 6 p.m. EDT

SEC ANNOUNCES CONFERENCE-ONLY FOOTBALL SEASON

The Southeastern Conference has established September 26 as the new kickoff for its 2020 football season to allow its universities to focus on the healthy return of their campus communities and the gradual re-introduction of athletics, as the 14 members of the SEC continue to monitor developments related to COVID-19, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey announced Thursday.

The 2020 SEC football season will be comprised of a 10-game Conference-only schedule and the SEC Football Championship Game will be played December 19 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, rescheduled from the original date of December 5. The schedule will include one mid-season open date for each school and an open date on December 12 for all schools.

“This new plan for a football schedule is consistent with the educational goals of our universities to allow for the safe and orderly return to campus of their student populations and to provide a healthy learning environment during these unique circumstances presented by the COVID-19 virus,” Sankey said. “This new schedule supports the safety measures that are being taken by each of our institutions to ensure the health of our campus communities.”

This action was taken following extensive discussions and thorough deliberation among the SEC’s Presidents and Chancellors, Athletics Directors, Conference Office staff, and medical advisors, led by the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force.

“After careful consideration of the public health indicators in our region and following advice of our medical advisors, we have determined that this is the best course of action to prepare for a safe and healthy return to competition for SEC student-athletes, coaches and others associated with our sports programs,” said Sankey.The decision to limit competition to Conference-only opponents and rescheduling the SEC Championship Game is based on the need for maximum flexibility in making any necessary scheduling adjustments while reacting to developments around the pandemic and continued advice from medical professionals.

“We believe these schedule adjustments offer the best opportunity to complete a full season by giving us the ability to adapt to the fluid nature of the virus and the flexibility to adjust schedules as necessary if disruptions occur,” Sankey said. “It is regrettable that some of our traditional non-conference rivalries cannot take place in 2020 under this plan, but these are unique, and hopefully temporary, circumstances that call for unconventional measures.”

The rescheduled start to the season will allow the SEC to continue to monitor health trends across its 11-state footprint, as well as monitor developments in technology around mitigation and treatment of the virus, including:

• Trends in public health indicators throughout the SEC’s 11-state footprint, including positive cases of COVID-19, hospitalizations and recovery statistics
• State, local and campus heath directives, including restrictions on gatherings, isolation requirements for travelers, and other health and travel restrictions
• Continued development of risk mitigation strategies
• Continued advancement in COVID-19 testing reliability and availability
• Continued evolution of time-based strategies for resuming activities after positive test results, including contact tracing, isolation and quarantine requirements
• Observation of successes and challenges presented by return to competition in other sports

A revised schedule for the 2020 SEC football season will be announced at a later date following approval by the conference’s athletics directors.

Further decisions regarding safety standards related to athletics events, tailgating and other game day activities, including social distancing, face covering and other health measures consistent with CDC, state and local guidelines, will be announced at a later date.

Other notes related to the resumption of competition:

• The SEC announced in July that the sports of men’s and women’s cross country, soccer and volleyball would be postponed through at least August 31. Start dates and schedules for those sports, as well as sports in their non-traditional seasons during the fall, will be announced at a later date.
• The SEC announced in July that student-athletes in all sports who elect to not participate in intercollegiate athletics during the fall 2020 academic semester because of health and/or safety concerns related to COVID-19 will continue to have their scholarships honored by their university and will remain in good standing with their team.
• The SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force continues to meet on policies and procedures for the safe return of student-athletes to competition, including the development of comprehensive testing and reporting policies, building on the NCAA’s Resocialization of College Sports Guidelines.
• Each athletics program has been engaged in evaluating best practices for game operations to prepare a safe environment for student-athletes, coaches, staff, officials and other individuals necessary to conduct games.

STATEMENT FROM PRESIDENT BOB CASLEN

“I am pleased that football will return in the fall and that we will play our SEC competitors. Throughout discussions with other SEC presidents and chancellors, I took the position that we should continue to play our in-state rival, but I support the ultimate decision to have conference-only play.

“Coach Tanner and the conference’s athletics directors have worked tirelessly on this plan, keeping the safety of our student-athletes first in their discussions and decision. As our students make their way back to campus next month, I know they return ready for the excitement and tradition of college football. I commend the hard work of our student-athletes, coaches and staff, and look forward to the start of the season.”

STATEMENT FROM ATHLETICS DIRECTOR RAY TANNER

“I appreciate the hard work and efforts of Commissioner Sankey and the SEC office in developing the procedures and protocols for our student-athletes to be able to participate in their sports this academic year.

“Since college sports were shut down due to the pandemic, the league’s athletics directors have met often with the goal of making return to play happen for our student-athletes. I am confident in the guidance that we have received from the SEC Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force to provide an environment that is as safe as possible for our student-athletes, coaches, and staff.

“A conference-only schedule gives us the best opportunity to have a complete season because of the flexibility it provides with control over conference games and the ability to make adjustments, when there is a possibility of disruption.

“I am disappointed that we will not play our in-state rival this year. It is a great rivalry and one of the nation’s best. The pandemic has created many challenges and forced us to make adjustments. I am glad that we are planning to play football this fall. I look forward to renewing the rivalry in 2021.

“Our student-athletes, coaches and staff appreciate the great support of all Gamecock fans. There are challenges in playing college football in the middle of a pandemic. Our staff is working on a comprehensive plan that will address these challenges.”

STATEMENT FROM FOOTBALL COACH WILL MUSCHAMP

“We are excited about the opportunity to play football this fall. I appreciate the leadership of Commissioner Sankey, the SEC office and the medical experts in making the best decision for our institutions.

“It’s unfortunate that we will not be playing Clemson this season but that wasn’t our choice, it was a league decision. That’s a game that is important to our program, our institution and our state, and one that President Caslen and Coach Tanner pushed hard to make happen. I look forward to renewing the rivalry in 2021.”

ADDITIONAL NOTES ON GAMECOCK FOOTBALL SEASON

Reduced Capacity at Williams-Brice Stadium: A social distancing plan must be in place for Williams-Brice Stadium to have a capacity of more than 250 people for home football games, based on an executive order from the South Carolina Governor’s Office. School officials are developing a plan to account for social distancing at home football games, which will significantly impact the number of fans that can attend these events. We will communicate these plans once they are finalized and approved by the proper authorities.

Season Ticket Holders: Knowing that social distancing guidelines need to be in place for the season, fulfilling season tickets in a traditional manner cannot occur. Once a final decision has been made on the social distancing plan, we will communicate updated ticketing procedures. Information related to refund and investment option will be communicated next week. We appreciate your patience and support of our student-athletes with your ticket purchases and Gamecock Club contributions during these challenging times.

The health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and our great fans are at the forefront of every decision that we make. We hope that you and your family are keeping safe and healthy.

UPDATE: July 17, 2020 @ 2:30 p.m. EDT

SEC SCHOOLS COMMIT TO SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Southeastern Conference student-athletes who elect to not participate in intercollegiate athletics during the fall 2020 academic semester because of health and/or safety concerns related to COVID-19 will continue to have their scholarships honored by their university and will remain in good standing with their team, the Conference announced Friday.

The action is the result of a unanimous vote of the SEC’s Presidents and Chancellors following a recommendation of the Conference’s Athletics Directors.

“SEC universities are committed to full support of its student-athletes, whether or not a student-athlete decides to participate in sports during these uncertain times,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “SEC student-athletes have frequently expressed their desire to compete, but it is important for student-athletes and their families to know the financial support committed to them by their institutions will not be at risk because of health concerns presented by the current pandemic.”

UPDATE: July 14, 2020 @ 3 p.m. EDT

SEC VOLLEYBALL, SOCCER, CROSS COUNTRY COMPETITION POSTPONED THROUGH AT LEAST AUGUST 31

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southeastern Conference announced Tuesday that it will postpone the start of volleyball, soccer and cross country competition through at least August 31. The decision will provide additional time to prepare for the safe return of competition on an adjusted timeline.

The delay in competition includes all exhibition and non-conference games.

SEC institutions will continue to follow the guidance of the Conference’s Return to Activity and Medical Advisory Task Force and the NCAA’s Resocialization of College Sports Guidelines as student-athletes are engaged in preseason preparation for a return to competition.

Any rescheduling of non-conference contests impacted by the postponed start of the fall seasons in volleyball, soccer and cross country will be determined by each school.

The SEC continues to monitor developments related to COVID-19 as it evaluates the potential impact on fall schedules in all sports, with the understanding that the primary responsibility of the SEC and its institutions is to ensure the health and well-being of its student-athletes.

UPDATE: May 22, 2020 @ 3:30 p.m. EDT

The University of South Carolina Athletics Department is ready to host all student-athletes who return to campus this summer for voluntary workouts. The health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes is paramount. The protocol that has been developed for Gamecock student-athletes exceeds CDC guidelines to ensure this priority.

While this mission pertains to all student-athletes at the University of South Carolina, most of this document pertains to the sport of football. Details on other sports arrival on campus will mirror most of these details but would likely change based on facility, workouts, and guidelines when they return.

All protocols and procedures will be consistently reviewed to ensure student-athletes on campus are receiving the highest quality care.

TESTING

• Upon arrival at the University, all student-athletes will be given a COVID-19 and antibody test. All student-athletes must have a negative COVID-19 result before taking part in voluntary workouts or the start of practice activities to immediately learn whether the student may have the virus. The antibody test indicates if the student may have previously had the virus.
• Any student-athlete who tests positive for COVID-19 will immediately be isolated away from the team and either return home or remain on campus until the end of the isolation period. The University will interview the student to trace contacts that have occurred with the other individuals. Medical staff will provide health monitoring of the student multiple times each day and football staff, dieticians, counselors, and Student Development staff will consistently keep in close contact with the student during the isolation period.
• Should a roommate or member of his cluster test positive, the player(s) must quarantine themselves for 14 days from the last exposure of positive individual. Those individuals will be monitored daily by the athletic trainer. If the individuals develop symptoms themselves, they would be referred to the team physician and staff at Student Health Services.
• The return to workouts would only occur after the player is symptom free for the 14-day quarantine period.

FACILITIES

• All facilities that are to be used by football players have undergone a strict cleaning process to ensure that they are fully disinfected. Touch surfaces in all these facilities will be disinfected at least once per day.
• There will be staggered entry and departure from the Long Family Football Operations Building. Cell phones, keys and other personal items are disinfected upon entry into these facilities.
• Additional hand sanitizing stations will be in the lobby elevator, all lobby entrances, and the parking garage at 650 Lincoln, the student-athletes’ on-campus housing.

DAILY PROTOCOL

• A daily medical check will be administered to each student or staff member before entering the Long Family Football Operations Building. This includes a checklist of symptoms and a temperature check. Student-Athletes who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms will be evaluated by a medical professional for appropriate follow up.
• All football players and staff will be required to wear face coverings in public spaces and wash their hands frequently.
• Physical distancing with staff and students will be emphasized.
• As an added precaution, players will be divided into small clusters. This helps limit any possible exposure to COVID-19 within the football team. Workouts, housing accommodations, eating, and socializing activities will be restricted to teammates in a player’s cluster. Ready-made meals will be available to all players and distributed to keep the player’s cluster together.
• Strict protocols are used in the weight room and athletics training spaces, using physical distancing as well as disinfecting of machines and apparatus.

EDUCATION

• In addition to the rigorous safety protocols in place, there will be extensive educational efforts including videos, in-person communication and signage.
• Medical staff will have an educational session next week with parents of the players on campus to provide them with information and answer questions that they have.

MEDICAL AUTHORITY

• All medical decisions related to practice and competition will be made by the medical director in consultation with team physicians and other medical staff.

UPDATE: May 22, 2020 @ 1:30 p.m. EDT

SEC TO PERMIT VOLUNTARY IN-PERSON ATHLETICS ACTIVITIES BEGINNING ON JUNE 8

Student-Athletes Given Opportunity to Engage in Strength & Conditioning Activities That Can Be Effectively Monitored and Performed While Social Distancing

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Voluntary in-person athletics activities may resume on Southeastern Conference campuses, at the discretion of each university, beginning June 8 under strict supervision of designated university personnel and safety guidelines developed by each institution, the SEC announced Friday.

Due to the impact of COVID-19, the SEC had suspended all athletics activities through May 31. June 8 will begin a transition period that will allow student-athletes to gradually adapt to full training and sports activity after this recent period of inactivity. Under plans developed by each university and consistent with state and local health directives, certain activities will be permitted based on the ability to participate in controlled and safe environments, while also maintaining recommended social distancing measures.

The decision to resume athletics activities, which at this time is limited by the NCAA to voluntary activities supervised by strength and conditioning personnel, was made with the guidance of the Conference’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force. Created by the SEC’s Presidents and Chancellors in April and comprised of a cross-section of leading public health, infectious disease and sports medicine professionals from across the SEC’s 14 member institutions, the Task Force will remain active to provide continued advice and guidance to the SEC and its members as they prepare for a return to competition.

“The safe and healthy return of our student-athletes, coaches, administrators and our greater university communities have been and will continue to serve as our guiding principle as we navigate this complex and constantly-evolving situation,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “At this time, we are preparing to begin the fall sports season as currently scheduled, and this limited resumption of voluntary athletic activities on June 8 is an important initial step in that process. Thanks to the blueprint established by our Task Force and the dedicated efforts of our universities and their athletics programs, we will be able to provide our student-athletes with far better health and wellness education, medical and psychological care and supervision than they would otherwise receive on their own while off campus or training at public facilities as states continue to reopen.”

As part of its recommendations, the Task Force prepared a series of best practices for screening, testing, monitoring, tracing, social distancing and maintaining cleaned environments. These recommendations will serve as a roadmap for each school prior to and upon the return of student-athletes to their campuses.

“While each institution will make its own decisions in creating defined plans to safely return student-athletes to activity, it is essential to employ a collaborative approach that involves input from public health officials, coaches, sports medicine staff, sports performance personnel and student-athletes,” Sankey said. “Elements of the Task Force recommendations provided key guidance for determining the date of the return to activity.”

In addition to standard infection prevention measures as approved by public health authorities such as facility cleaning and social distancing, recommended enhanced health and safety measures include:

• Enhanced education of all team members on health and wellness best practices, including but not limited to preventing the spread of COVID-19
• A 3-stage screening process that involves screening before student-athletes arrive on campus, within 72 hours of entering athletics facilities and on a daily basis upon resumption of athletics activities
• Testing of symptomatic team members (including all student-athletes, coaches, team support and other appropriate individuals)
• Immediate isolation of team members who are under investigation or diagnosed with COVID-19 followed by contact tracing, following CDC and local public health guidelines
• A transition period that allows student-athletes to gradually adapt to full training and sport activity following a period of inactivity

During the month of June, NCAA regulations permit only strength and conditioning personnel to supervise voluntary on-campus athletics activities in the sports of football and men’s & women’s basketball. A current waiver that permits eight (8) hours of virtual film review has been extended through June 30 for football and basketball.

Consistent with NCAA regulations, organized practices and other required physical activities remain prohibited in all sports. A previously announced suspension of in-person camps and coaches clinics conducted by SEC institutions remains in effect until July 31.

UPDATE: May 19, 2020 @ 2:30 p.m. EDT

The University of South Carolina announced Tuesday a plan to implement voluntary 10 percent pay reductions for President Bob Caslen, several senior-level cabinet administrators and the university’s three highest paid coaches for fiscal year 2020-21, which begins July 1, 2020.

The reduction is part of a cost-saving strategy to help offset the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on university operations. The voluntary reduction is expected to save more than $1.2 million in the upcoming fiscal year.

“The global health crisis will continue to have a significant impact on the university, and I applaud our university officials and coaches for their willingness to personally contribute to our institution’s financial health,” Caslen said. “From the very beginning of the pandemic, our leadership team has responded with tremendous professionalism and a singular determination to help the university navigate through this unprecedented challenge. I thank them for their deep commitment to our students and our mission.”

Those volunteering for the reduction include head football coach Will Muschamp, head men’s basketball coach Frank Martin and head women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley. University administrators include Caslen, Athletics Director Ray Tanner, and all members of the president’s cabinet.

“Working in intercollegiate athletics at the University of South Carolina is a tremendous calling for myself and our coaches and staff. I am aware of the difficulties many people in our state and nation are having because of this pandemic, including the staff and students of our great University. These shared voluntary sacrifices will help address the anticipated financial shortfalls at Carolina,” Tanner said.

The university estimates that the cost of the pandemic through August could total as much as $40 million, with more significant financial impacts in the new fiscal year that begins July 1.

Additional cost-saving measures currently underway include delaying capital construction projects; deferring non-critical maintenance; filling only mission-critical positions; eliminating university-funded travel; postponing faculty merit raises; and eliminating employee overtime. The option to allow state institutions to implement furloughs was approved by state’s General Assembly and Gov. Henry McMaster earlier this month, and the university also is developing furlough plans for consideration.

A joint committee of faculty and staff also are soliciting ideas from across the Columbia campus to identify additional efficiencies and cost reductions in order to protect UofSC’s core educational and research mission.

UPDATE: May 14, 2020 @ 11 a.m. EDT

MEDICAL TASK FORCE GUIDES SEC PREPARATION FOR RETURN TO ATHLETICS ACTIVITY

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A task force comprised of medical professionals representing the 14 universities of the Southeastern Conference is guiding the SEC as it prepares for membership decisions related to the return of athletics activities, including team gatherings, practices, conditioning and competition.

The SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force began meeting by video conference in April and updates from these meetings are provided to SEC Presidents and Chancellors and Athletics Directors at regular intervals. Any policy changes related to return to athletics activity will be approved by the Conference membership.

“As the Southeastern Conference Office continues to closely monitor and learn about COVID-19 and associated public health information, this task force of medical professionals has begun to provide the guidance necessary to make decisions related to the return to athletics activities for SEC student-athletes and to assist in our collaboration with colleague conferences in determining a safe return to athletics competition,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “The expertise of these medical professionals is playing an important role in our continuing focus on the health and well-being of SEC student-athletes.”

The task force is responsible for identifying recommended protocols and best practices for guiding the safe return to in-person on-campus meetings, individual workouts, out-of-season activities and skill instruction, and practice activities for student-athletes and coaches; identifying the desired amount of practice and training time required to safely acclimate student-athletes into competition; and identifying opportunities for a return to competition, including considerations for student-athletes, administrators, support staff, officials and fans.

The SEC has previously enacted proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the virus and protect the health and safety of student-athletes, administrators, officials and fans. To date, actions of the Conference include the cancellation of all athletic contests, including conference and non-conference competition, and SEC Championship events for the remainder of the 2020 spring season. The SEC has also suspended all in-person athletics activities, voluntary or required, including practices, individual and team workouts through at least May 31 (subject to adjustment based upon public health information), and has ceased operation of camps and coaches clinics through at least July 31.

Members of the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force:

• Dr. Jimmy Robinson, University of Alabama-Head Team Physician and Medical Director
• Dr. Chris Arnold, University of Arkansas, Orthopedic Surgeon/Team Physician
• Dr. Mike Goodlett, Auburn University, Chief Medical Officer/Team Physician
• Dr. Jay Clugston, University of Florida, Team Physician
• Ron Courson, University of Georgia, Senior Associate. Athletics Director/Sports Medicine
• Jim Madaleno, University of Kentucky, Executive Associate Athletics Director/Sports Medicine and Performance
• Dr. Catherine O’Neal, LSUHSC Assistant Professor of Medicine, Infectious Diseases
• Dr. Marshall Crowther, University of Mississippi, Medical Director/Sports Medicine Physician
• Dr. Cliff Story, Mississippi State University, Director of University Health Services
• Dr. Stevan Whitt, University of Missouri, Associate Professor of Medicine, Divisions of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and Infectious Diseases; Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs,
• University of Missouri School of Medicine, Chief Clinical Officer
• Dr. Zoë Foster, University of South Carolina, Program Director, Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship
• Dr. Chris Klenck, University of Tennessee, Head Team Physician
• Dr. Shawn Gibbs, Texas A&M University, Dean of School of Public Health
• Dr. Warne Fitch, Vanderbilt University, Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Associate Professor of Orthopedics

UPDATE: May 6, 2020 @ 1:30 p.m. EDT

The University of South Carolina announced Wednesday its plan to resume in-person instruction on the Columbia campus for the fall 2020 semester beginning in mid-August.

In a letter to students, faculty and staff, UofSC President Bob Caslen outlined the strategies the university will employ to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 virus on the campus community while delivering an exceptional educational experience to the more than 33,000 enrolled students at the state’s flagship research institution. Full text of the letter is included below.

The announcement follows weeks of focused planning by an interdisciplinary group led by public health, medical and academic experts from across the university. Citing the work of the group, Caslen told the university community the decision to return was based on a number of factors, but ultimately guided by the principle that their safe return is possible when combined with sound public health practices.

“Every step of the way, our top priority is your health, safety and wellbeing. The in-depth, tireless work of the group has given me a new level of understanding and confidence that in-person instruction can safely begin this fall,” Caslen wrote. “As we prepare for August, we recognize that we are embarking on a new normal that will demand from each of us a commitment to public health and safety.”

The plan announced Wednesday also includes a phased in return of some students, faculty and staff during the summer, while regular summer courses will continue to be delivered remotely. This will allow the university to begin implementing key mitigation measures prior to the full return of all students to the Columbia campus.

Debbie Beck, executive director of UofSC’s Student Health Services, said collaboration with experts from the university’s Arnold School of Public Health and the School of Medicine will continue through the summer and beyond.

“We know the COVID-19 virus will be with us for some time, but we are incredibly fortunate that our campus has a world-class accredited student health infrastructure that will allow us to respond and adapt if we see new cases,” Beck said. “We also will continue to work closely with university, local and state health officials to ensure our mitigation strategies are informed by best practices and designed to minimize risk to our community.”

Highlights of the plan include:

• COVID-19 testing available for all students, faculty and staff;
• Comprehensive identification of positive cases and contact tracing;
• An increase in single-occupancy rooms in residence halls;
• A combination of public health protocols, including social distancing for classrooms, lecture halls, social gatherings and sports activities;
• Modified dining options;
• Space on campus for safe quarantine and self-isolation if necessary;
• Strong encouragement of proper social distancing off campus;
• Alternative arrangement for high-risk students and employees

Note: University officials will join President Caslen tonight at 6 p.m. E.T. for a live virtual public town hall for the university community. For more information on the university’s COVID-19 planning, visit the Future Planning Group webpage and the COVID-19 site.

Letter from President Bob Caslen

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

After weeks of analysis and consideration, and in consultation with the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to report that the Columbia campus of the University of South Carolina will resume in-person instruction in mid-August.

One month ago, I called together a Future Planning Group (FPG) – an interdisciplinary gathering of public health, clinical medicine, academic and staff experts from across the university – to examine how to implement a safe return to campus in August. The FPG has gathered and analyzed data from every operational aspect of this institution and it works closely with public health experts on campus and throughout the state and nation to monitor COVID-19 trends and recommend appropriate measures to implement on-campus going forward. Every step of the way, our top priority is your health, safety and wellbeing. The in-depth, tireless work of the FPG has given me a new level of understanding and confidence that in-person instruction can safely begin this fall.

This decision has not been made lightly. It is informed by the science of our excellent epidemiologists and health care specialists in our planning group, as well as the CDC and the SC Department of Health and Environment Control. It is also made with the understanding of the cost of interrupting or postponing the education of tomorrow’s leaders for another semester or year. We have listened to the increasing number of students who have expressed their desire to be back on campus to experience the fullness of academic and student life. Many of these students, if faced with no option other than prolonged remote learning, will elect to postpone or discontinue their education. Finally, as has been the case with all of our actions up to this point, this decision is made with a genuine concern for our community and an absolute commitment to mitigating the future risks to Columbia and our surrounding communities.

As we prepare for August, we are embarking on a new normal that will demand from each of us a commitment to public health and safety. Our epidemiologists remind us that the risks associated with COVID-19 will remain a reality for the foreseeable future, simply because we have neither herd immunity nor a vaccine. With that reality, our purposeful efforts to reduce the spread of the virus through recommended public health protocols will continue as we also bolster our ability to respond to any potential resurgence of cases. Our excellent healthcare facilities and capacity on campus, and the top tier hospitals and available healthcare resources in the Columbia area will enable us to effectively address the needs of our campus community as we move forward. The success of the fall and the continued safety of our community depend, however, on the resolve of each student, staff and faculty member to comply daily with safety and health protocols.

We will begin by phasing in an increased presence on campus this summer of selected populations of students and faculty, even as summer courses remain online. This transitional, phased approach will allow us to test our mitigation measures, pilot our initiatives and further build our confidence and capacity to open our doors to the University community safely in August.

While we would like as many students, faculty and staff members as possible to return in person, doing so would not be mandatory, as we recognize that some would be uncomfortable coming back to campus in August. We respect each person’s decision to either return or delay their return, and we will expand our online course offerings to accommodate those who choose to remain away.

For those who are returning to campus, plans for academics, housing, dining and every aspect of student and campus life for the fall semester are being meticulously formed by the FPG and an increasingly broad group of campus leaders. Plans include the following:

• We will have the capacity to test every Student, Faculty and Staff member for COVID-19 upon return the campus
• We have the capacity to sustain a robust testing program throughout the entire semester
• We are reviewing several comprehensive tracing and tracking apps for early and thorough identification of at-risk contacts
• We have designated ample student housing for those who may require isolation and quarantine, and we are putting in place the support services to provide for their meals, education, and other needs
• We will increase on campus single-occupancy rooms in on-campus residence halls
• We will modify our dining practices in order to reduce close student contact in student dining facilities through “grab and go” meals
• We will make accommodations for high-risk individuals and others who choose to continue online instruction with safeguards for protection against discrimination and stigma
• We will follow clear public health protocols, including social distancing within classrooms, lecture halls, meeting rooms and sports venues, with strong encouragement of proper social distancing off campus
• We will ensure that large class sections will either meet in smaller sections or in online formats and create alternative academic offerings to accommodate safe class gatherings
• We will provide advising over the summer to help all students adjust their course schedules as needed
• And finally, as stated, no student, faculty or staff member will be required to return

The new normal on campus won’t be easy but judging by how well all of you have risen to the occasion during the challenges of the last many weeks, I have great confidence in you. Make no mistake, it will take all of us, working together, to keep our campus as safe and productive as possible when we’re together again. The student leadership is working to develop its own campaign on social distancing norms both on and off campus and ways to hold themselves accountable. Our mayor and governor have been briefed on this plan and are both in agreement and support, and we will continue to work seamlessly with both the city and the state on their re-engagement plans. I know we will all commit ourselves to following the protocols necessary to protect the welfare of our fellow Gamecocks and the surrounding Columbia community.

Once again, I want to emphasize our excellent healthcare facilities and capacity on campus, and the top tier hospitals and available healthcare resources in the Columbia area that will enable us to address the needs of our campus community as we move forward.

We have a lot to look forward to and must remain focused, determined and agile. This plan, as thoughtful as it is, could change at any time due to COVID-19 developments. We will remain flexible to address how education is delivered if and when the public health environment changes within our community. We will keep you informed in the weeks ahead as we finalize plans for the fall semester. This is the time to recommit ourselves to our own well-being and that of others as we draw closer to joining together again at our beloved university.

Each day as I walk from the President’s House to my office and back, springtime on the Horseshoe reminds me that ours is a campus that invites and inspires us to learn and work together. Our University of South Carolina has for nearly 220 years beckoned generations to its hallowed grounds and has survived the Great Depression, two world wars, previous pandemics and countless natural disasters. We are meant to be together and we will gather again, safely.

This evening we will host a virtual town hall event at 6:00 p.m. to answer as many of your questions as possible. You can join the event by visiting our COVID-19 webpage.

Forever to Thee,
Bob

UPDATE: April 11, 2020 @ 10:30 a.m. EDT

Dear Gamecocks,

I hope this finds you all safe and healthy as we continue to adjust to the challenges placed before us by the COVID-19 pandemic and the trying times our Gamecock family and the nation has endured over the past month

In the past few weeks, I have witnessed tremendous strength from our student-athletes and coaches. Our student-athletes have adjusted from on-campus practices and competitions to training at home and attending classes on-line. Our coaches are great leaders and they have adjusted during these unprecedented times.

The conversations that I have had with our student-athletes and coaches have made me proud. Proud to see the character of our Gamecocks when truly put to a test. Proud to see their resilience when faced with these challenges. I am proud to be the person that gets to lead these incredible young people and advocate on their behalf.

In that vein, we are extremely excited to be offering the opportunity, allowed by the NCAA, for any spring student-athlete who had their final year of eligibility cut short to return to campus for another year of eligibility. The financial challenge of funding scholarships for this additional year is sizable and thus, not mandatory. However, our student-athletes are of great character and they perform in the classroom and in competition. There is no doubt that this is the right thing to do.

During this time where terms like social distancing, quarantine and shelter-in-place are used with great frequency, our department’s goal is to remain connected with all of our stakeholders, despite this “new normal.” Whether it be through a note like this one, engaging with you on social media or the community efforts like those of Coach Muschamp and his family through the Feed Our Heroes initiative, we strive to stay engaged in the community and to be there for you as we get through this together.

Reflecting on the decisions of the past month, the efforts made by those within our campus community to act swiftly and prioritize safety in the face of uncertain times has left us well positioned to deal with the challenges of this virus. While none of us know what the future holds, we remain enthusiastic about the first chance to get out our rally towels and enjoy “Sandstorm” as we gather once again “under a Carolina sky…under the palmettos, beneath the crescent moon” as a Gamecock community and as a family.

Forever to Thee,

Ray Tanner

UPDATE: March 17, 2020 @ 3 p.m. EDT

The Southeastern Conference today announced that all regular season conference and non-conference competitions are cancelled for the remainder of the 2019-20 athletic year, including all remaining SEC championship events, due to continuing developments related to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

In addition, all spring football games are cancelled and there will be no pro days conducted by SEC institutions.

“This is a difficult day for all of us, and I am especially disappointed for our student-athletes,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “The health and well-being of our entire conference community is an ongoing priority for the SEC as we continue to monitor developments and information about the COVID-19 virus.”

Other athletics activities, including team and individual practices, meetings and other organized gatherings, whether required or voluntary, remain suspended through at least April 15.

SEC member institutions will continue to provide their student-athletes with care and support to meet needs in areas including academics, medical care, mental health and wellness, nutrition and housing as needed.

The SEC and its member institutions will continue to communicate with public health officials and medical experts to determine the best path forward related to coronavirus pandemic.

TICKET REFUND INFORMATION

For the SEC Softball Tournament and the SEC Baseball Tournament, automatic full ticket refunds will be made by March 31 to fans who purchased tickets from the SEC Office or an SEC university.

UPDATE: March 15, 2020 @ 8 p.m. EDT

Head coach Dawn Staley has some COVID-19 prevention tips for everyone. Be smart and take precautions.

UPDATE: March 13, 2020 @ 7 p.m. EDT

Athletics Director Ray Tanner addressed reporters at a news conference Friday evening from Founders Park.

UPDATE: March 13, 2020 @ 4 p.m. EDT

The Southeastern Conference today announced that all athletics activities, including competitions, team and individual practices, meetings and other organized gatherings, will be suspended through at least April 15, due to continuing developments related to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

The SEC had previously announced that all competition was suspended until March 30. That suspension of competition has been extended through April 15 and now includes all organized team activities.

SEC athletics programs will cease practices, individual and team workouts effective the end of the day Friday, March 13. Team meetings shall conclude no later than 5 pm local time on Monday, March 16.

SEC member institutions will continue to provide their student-athletes with care and support to meet needs in areas including academics, medical care, mental health and wellness, nutrition and housing as needed.

UPDATE: March 12, 2020 @ 5:54 p.m. EDT

The situation with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic has impacted University of South Carolina, Southeastern Conference and NCAA athletics. This information is fluid with details and information changes daily.

The Southeastern Conference announced today the suspension of regular season competition for teams in all sports on SEC campuses, as well as SEC championship events, until March 30. The SEC also announced today, the cancelation of the remainder of its men’s basketball tournament.

The NCAA announced earlier today that it has canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships.

The South Carolina Athletics Department will issue refunds for tickets purchased for canceled events. The timing of these refunds may be impacted by campus departmental closures.

“The safety and well-being of our student-athletes, fans, coaches and staff is the most important responsibility we have in our athletics department,” said Ray Tanner, South Carolina Director of Athletics. “The decision to suspend athletics competition through March 30 was a difficult decision for everyone in the league.”

The SEC schools has also made a league-wide decision to prohibit on-campus and off-campus recruiting through March 30.

Gamecock athletics squads will determine its own practice schedules during the suspended competition period, while following normal NCAA practice rules. Gamecock Football Pro Day, originally scheduled for March 19, has been canceled.

“This is a public health situation that many of us have never experienced before,” added Tanner. “Decisions have been and are being made with as much information as possible as expeditiously as necessary.”

Depending on the situation with the COVID-19 epidemic at the March 30 date, the SEC and its institutions may extend the suspension period.

For the latest information on Gamecock Athletics, follow @GamecocksOnline on Twitter and South Carolina Gamecocks on Facebook, GamecocksOnline.com and local media outlets.

UPDATE: March 12, 2020 @ 4:07 p.m. EDT

NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.

UPDATE: March 12, 2020 @ 12:30 p.m. EDT

Based on the latest developments and the continued spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Southeastern Conference today announced the suspension of regular season competition for teams in all sports on SEC campuses, as well SEC championship events, until March 30.

This does not apply to teams and individuals in NCAA competition, at this time.

The SEC reminds everyone to be attentive to everyday preventive actions identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

UPDATE: March 11, 2020 @ 9:15 p.m. EDT

The following is a press release from the Southeastern Conference. In addition, below is a quote from Ray Tanner, Director of Athletics, University of South Carolina:

“The safety and well-being of our student-athletes, fans, coaches and staff is the most important responsibility we have in our athletics department. By limiting attendance at home athletics events, the SEC believes we are reducing the chances that the COVID-19 virus will spread in our community. I know this is disappointing for our great fans, but it is done with an abundance of caution during this difficult time.”

Information on ticket refunds for home Gamecock athletics events during this time will be released in the near future.

SEC TO PLAY REMAINDER OF MEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT WITH ATTENDANCE RESTRICTIONS; ALL CAMPUS REGULAR SEASON EVENTS, SEC CHAMPIONSHIPS UNDER SAME CONDITIONS THROUGH AT LEAST MARCH 30

The Southeastern Conference has announced it will conduct the 2020 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament with only essential staff, limited family and credentialed media in attendance at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville for the remainder of the week beginning on Thursday following the recommendation of the NCAA COVID-19 Advisory Panel related to conducting sporting events closed to the public.

In addition, the SEC announced that all regular season contests in all sports on SEC campuses and SEC Championship events will be conducted with similar attendance restrictions effective Thursday, March 12 through at least March 30 at which time the conference and its member universities will re-evaluate conditions.

The SEC issued a statement from SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey:

“In light of recent developments beyond our control related to the spread of the coronavirus, including a recommendation from the NCAA COVID-19 Advisory Panel, and after consultation with our member universities, we have made the difficult decision to hold the 2020 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament in Nashville without spectators beginning with games of Thursday, March 12. Effective immediately, the policy will also apply to other SEC Championship events and on-campus regular season games scheduled through at least the end of March.

“After conferring with local and national health authorities, we remain confident in our ability to safeguard the health and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and other staff who will be participating as well as the limited number of family members and media who will be in attendance at the tournament.

“We regret the inconvenience and disappointment this decision has caused our fans, especially those who have already travelled to Nashville for the tournament.”

As previously announced, the SEC has implemented the following enhanced health measures for the 2020 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament:

• Use of hospital grade disinfectant to sanitize locker rooms before teams arrive and immediately upon departure;
• Sanitization of game balls with hospital grade disinfectant after each practice and game;
• Sanitization of team benches plus band and cheerleader seating areas following each game;
• Hand sanitizers, disinfectant wipes and Lysol spray in team locker rooms;
• Hand sanitizers at scorer’s table, in officials’ locker rooms, operations offices and media areas.

For the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament, automatic refunds of ticket purchases will be made to fans who are the original purchaser of the tickets from SEC Office or an SEC university, or a verified purchaser on the SEC Ticket Exchange powered by Ticketmaster. For regular season events, each campus will determine refund policies and procedures.

The SEC Network will televise the entire first and second round of the tournament and the quarterfinals evening session. ESPN will broadcast the afternoon session of the quarterfinals, both semifinal matchups and the championship game.

The SEC remains in continued communication with public health officials and reminds everyone to be attentive to everyday preventive actions identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov).

UPDATE: March 11, 2020 @ 2:26 p.m. EDT

The safety and well-being of University of South Carolina student-athletes, fans, coaches and staff are at the forefront of establishing any policy for Gamecock athletics events. The situation with the Coronavirus is fluid with details and information changing daily. The information in this update is meant to supplement the release sent out today by the University and available on sc.edu.

For the latest information on Gamecock Athletics, follow @GamecocksOnline on Twitter and South Carolina Gamecocks on Facebook, GamecocksOnline.com and local media outlets.

All in-season intercollegiate athletics competitions will go on as scheduled. In an attempt to ensure that our community remains as healthy as possible, we encourage patrons at all of our athletics venues to take precautions such as:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty. All Carolina athletics venues will have hand sanitizer stations.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with any disposable wipes.
• Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in households and community settings.
• If you have recently returned from a country with ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) infections, monitor your health and follow the instructions of public health officials.
• Per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control people over the age of 60 with preexisting medical conditions should avoid attending events with large crowds because they are at greater risk of complications related to COVID-19.

Colonial Life Arena on the University of South Carolina campus is likely to be selected as a host site for the first and second rounds of the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament. As the situation with the coronavirus progresses, University administrators will be in constant communication with the NCAA. The NCAA makes decisions on their events based on the best, most current public health guidance available. Neither the NCAA COVID-19 advisory panel, made up of leading public health and infectious disease experts in America, nor the CDC or local health officials have advised against holding sporting events. In the event circumstances change, the University and NCAA will collaborate and make decisions accordingly. At this time, we are moving forward as scheduled.

In an attempt to keep student-athletes and fans safe from potential spread of the virus, pre-game and post-game handshakes between Gamecock athletics teams, opposing teams and fans will be stopped until the Coronavirus warnings are ceased.