The Southeast Conference established September 26 as the new start to its 2020 soccer season to allow its universities to focus on the healthy return of their university communities and the gradual reintroduction of athletics, while the 14 members of the SEC continue to monitor the developments. Related to COVID-19, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey announced Thursday.
Following that news, South Carolina President Bob Caslen, athletic director Ray Tanner and soccer head coach Will Muschamp released statements Thursday night.
STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT BOB CASLEN
“I am pleased that soccer returns in the fall and that we play against our SEC competitors. Throughout discussions with other SEC presidents and chancellors, I took the position that we should continue to play our rival in the state, but I support the last decision to play alone in the conference.
“Coach Tanner and the conference athletics directors have worked tirelessly on this plan, keeping our student-athletes safe first in their discussions and decisions. As our students return 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 I look forward to the start of the season. “
STATEMENT BY ATHLETICS DIRECTOR RAY TANNER
“I appreciate the hard work and efforts of Commissioner Sankey and the SEC office in developing the procedures and protocols so that our student athletes can participate in their sports this academic year.
“Since college sports closed due to the pandemic, the league’s athletic directors have often met with the goal of making return to the game possible for our student athletes. I am confident in the guidance we have received from SEC Back to Activity and the Medical Guidance Task Force to provide the safest environment possible for our student athletes, coaches, and staff.
“A conference-only schedule gives us the best chance to have a full season because of the flexibility it provides with control over conference games and the ability to make adjustments when there is a possibility of interruption.”
“I am disappointed that we are not going to play our rival in the state this year. It is a great rivalry and one of the best in the nation. The pandemic has created many challenges and forced us to make adjustments. I am glad that we plan to play soccer this fall. I hope to renew 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 amid a pandemic. Our staff is working on a comprehensive plan that addresses these challenges.”
STATEMENT BY MUSCHAMP FOOTBALL COACH
“We are excited about the opportunity to play soccer 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 is unfortunate that we are not going to play Clemson this season, but that was not our choice, it was a decision of the league. It is a game that is important to our program, our institution and our state, and that President Caslen and the Coach Tanner pushed hard for it to happen. I hope to renew the rivalry in 2021. “
ADDITIONAL NOTES ABOUT THE GAMECOCK FOOTBALL SEASON
Reduced capacity at Williams-Brice Stadium: A social distancing plan must exist for the Williams-Brice Stadium to have a capacity of more than 250 people for home soccer games, according to an executive order from the Office of the Governor of South Carolina. School officials are developing a plan to explain social distancing at home soccer games, which will have a significant impact on the number of fans who can attend these events. We will communicate these plans once they are finalized and approved by the corresponding authorities.
Season ticket holders: Knowing that the guidelines for social distancing must be in force for the season, it is not possible to fulfill the subscriptions in the traditional way. Once a final decision has been made about the social distancing plan, we will communicate the updated ticketing procedures. Information regarding the redemption and investment option will be communicated next week. We appreciate your patience and support from our student athletes with their Gamecock Club ticket purchases and contributions during these difficult times.
The health, safety, and well-being of our student athletes, coaches, staff, and great fans are at the forefront of every decision we make. We hope that you and your family stay safe and healthy.
