NCAA updates protocols for championship attendance and masks

Based on recommendations from NCAA COVID-19 Medical Advisory Group, the NCAA today announced new health and safety guidance for upcoming championships. Starting May 20, local public health authorities will determine fan capacity at championship events. The NCAA will not set a predefined limit.

There will also be no need for masks and physical distancing unless required by public health authorities. “Every person attending an NCAA championship should make an informed decision about wearing a mask and staying physically balanced in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines,” said Dr. Brian Hainline, medical director of the NCAA. Disease Prevention.

Guidelines are subject to change based on emerging trends and science surrounding COVID-19.

“The effectiveness and prevalence of vaccination in our country has enabled the Health Advisory Group to provide this guidance,” said Hainline. “It is important for anyone attending the championship to keep in mind common sense measures such as hand washing, hand hygiene and proper cough or sneeze etiquette.”

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Level 1 participants at the NCAA championship will be in a controlled environment. Unvaccinated participants will continue to be screened according to the procedures outlined in Championship Safety Overview. Fully vaccinated athletics staff and healthcare providers will be allowed into Tier 1.

The COVID-19 Medical Advisory Group identifies Level 1 participants as those with the highest exposure, including student-athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, physiotherapists , medical personnel, equipment personnel and officials.

For more on the NCAA’s response to COVID-19, visit ncaa.org/covid-19.