Southeast Conference athletes who choose not to play fall sports due to COVID-19-related health and safety issues will receive their scholarships, the league announced Friday.
SEC presidents and chancellors unanimously approved the decision, which had been recommended by the league’s athletic directors. Big Ten and Pac-12 previously announced that all scholarships will be awarded to athletes who choose not to participate this fall.
“SEC universities are committed to the full support of their student-athletes, whether or not a student-athlete decides to participate in sports during these uncertain times,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said in a statement. “SEC student athletes have frequently expressed their desire to compete, but it is important for student athletes and their families to know that the financial support entrusted to them by their institutions will not be at risk due to the health problems presented by the pandemic current. “
Friday’s announcement impacts athletes in soccer, volleyball, soccer, and cross-country through both men and women. Earlier this week, the SEC postponed the start of volleyball, soccer and cross country seasons until August 31.
The league said it will continue to monitor developments around COVID-19 to see if the scholarship policy will last until the spring semester of 2021.
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