COLUMBUS, Ohio – Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren has put an end to any discussion of an attempt by the last slot to save fall football in 2020.
Warren released an ‘Open Letter to the Big Ten Community’ on Wednesday night. While offering some additional details of the process that resulted in the cancellation of all bankruptcy sports in 2020, it also reiterates the finality of that decision.
“The vote by the Big Ten Council of Presidents and Chancellors (COP / C) was overwhelming in support of the postponement of falls and will not be re-examined,” Warren wrote. “The decision was thorough and deliberative, and based on sound feedback, guidance and advice from medical experts.
“Despite the decision to suspend bankruptcy sports, we will continue our work to find a way forward that creates a healthy and safe environment for all Big Ten student-athletes to participate in the sports they love. in a way that helps prevent the spread of COVID -19 and protects both student-athletes and the surrounding communities. ”
Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith issued a statement saying OSU was “actively preparing for the winter and spring seasons for all sports, including the return of football.” While OSU believed that its protocols and guidelines allowed for a safe repayment of practices and leagues, it will respect the Big Ten’s decision.
Smith also said Ohio State President Kristina M. Johnson will serve in the Return to Competition Task Force, which Warren announced in his letter. That group will evaluate potential winter and spring models for competition, including how many football games can be safely played in a calendar year.
Warren did not disclose the numerical outcome of the original cancellation vote. His use of the word ‘mood’ will also come under control. Several people who attended that conference call – including Minnesota President Joan Gabel and Michigan State President Samuel L. Stanley – stopped saying a formal vote had been taken.
Warren offered more medical considerations outside of the first vague release. They largely reflect the details released by the Pac-12 conference in their announcement of the cancellation of fall sports.
Warren said three medical factors influenced the decision in particular:
• The continuing “alarming” rise in transmission rates and the pessimism of medical experts that the virus could be controlled by the start of the season.
Too much is known about the long-term effects of COVID-19 and recovery from infection, including the uncertain risk of cardiomyopathy.
• Concerns about traces of contacts and a lack of social distance per guidelines for Centers for Disease Control relative to contact sports such as football.
Ohio State players and parents were one of the most vocal in calling for a second chance at fall football. Buckeyes quarterback Justin Fields began an online petition calling for the reshuffle of the season and allowing teams and players to take over without reshuffling. As of Thursday night, it has more than 284,000 signatures.
Randy Wade, father of cornerback Shaun Wade, Ohio State, told cleveland.com that he still plans to travel to Big Ten offices on Friday in search of more answers.
The Ohio parent football team sent a letter to the Big Ten last week asking for a response by Wednesday. That letter called for the redesign of the 10-game, only fall schedule for conference as a detailed plan for an alternative. It also called for a meeting with players, parents and coaches to provide full transparency.
Warren’s open letter – the Big Ten’s first response to the Ohio State group’s requests, and an indirect one to that – did not live up to any of those expectations.
Face masks for sale in New Ohio State: Here you can buy Ohio themed face masks for coronavirus protection. A 3-pack is available at Fanatics for $ 29.99.
Fanatics has released Ohio State Buckeyes Adult Face Coverings. This 3-pack of adult masks, sells for $ 29.99.
More coverage from Buckeyes
What Dasan McCullough’s Promise to Ohio State Football Promises: Buckeye Recruiting
Dasan McCullough, 4-star 2022 LB, pleads for Ohio State football: Buckeyes Recruiting
What should Kevin Warren of Big Ten do next? Buckeye Talk Video
Ohio State football parent Randy Wade wants to organize a protest at the Big Ten headquarters
Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren should start talking
Gunner Givens, 2022 OT, says Ohio State football offer was one he ‘looked out for’: Buckeyes Recruiting Roundup
Will Ohio State football know its winter or spring schedule next week? Big Ten coronavirus update
Justin Fields, Buckeyes, Browns and Indians talk to Doug Lesmerises: Monday ‘More Sports & Les Levine’
