BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (July 14, 2020) – 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.
STATEMENT FROM MIZZOU SOCCER COACH BRYAN BLITZ:
“Our leadership has had to make very difficult decisions in regards to the 2020 season. While this has been an ever-evolving situation, our top priority has always been the safety of our student-athletes and our community. We will continue to move forward and prepare for our return to competition.”
STATEMENT FROM MIZZOU VOLLEYBALL COACH JOSHUA TAYLOR
“The safety of our student-athletes and coaching staff is the number one priority. These decisions are in the best interest of everyone involved. We will continue to adjust our preparation and training for the 2020 season and will be ready to go when the opportunity arises.”
