ROSEMONT, Ill. (WLFI) — The Big Ten Conference announced today that all fall sports will be limited to conference-only games during the 2020 season.
The statement reads in part:
"We are facing uncertain and unprecedented times, and the health, safety and wellness of our student-athletes, coaches, game officials, and others associated with our sports programs and campuses remain our number one priority.
To that end, the Big Ten Conference announced today that if the Conference is able to participate in fall sports (men’s and women’s cross country, field hockey, football, men’s and women’s soccer, and women’s volleyball) based on medical advice, it will move to Conference-only schedules in those sports. Details for these sports will be released at a later date, while decisions on sports not listed above will continue to be evaluated. By limiting competition to other Big Ten institutions, the Conference will have the greatest flexibility to adjust its own operations throughout the season and make quick decisions in real-time based on the most current evolving medical advice and the fluid nature of the pandemic."
The statement later directs summer athletic activities to continue to be voluntary for athletes. The Big Ten will also protect athletic scholarships for athletes who choose not to participate this season due to concerns about COVID-19.
Some reports have indicated that football will play a modified, 10-game season.
Details about this story will be updated on this page as information is released.
