Story courtesy of CSU Athletic Department

Colorado State Athletics will continue the phased return process for its athletic programs on Monday, June 29, with the return of men’s basketball and volleyball student-athletes.

Following the lead of football, which began its phased return on June 8 under strict public health guidelines as outlined by the Colorado Department of Higher Education and state orders, men’s basketball and volleyball student-athletes are eligible to return for physical examinations on June 29. On July 6, those sports will be eligible to resume voluntary strength and conditioning activities, and women’s basketball and women’s soccer will begin their examination process. On July 13, all previously mentioned sports will be in the strength and conditioning phase of summer activities.

In accordance with Colorado State University’s Pandemic Planning Team, local, state, and federal health authorities, Colorado State Athletics will institute a number of health, social distancing, and cleaning plans while keeping the health of staff and student-athletes as the highest priority:

1.       Student-athletes will be tested for COVID-19 as part of their return to participation physical exam.

2.       Student-athletes will complete a COVID-19 daily symptom assessment prior to each workout, which will include checking athletes for fever and other symptoms.

3.       The size of workout groups will be limited to optimize physical distancing.

4.       The initial phases of strength and conditioning will be conducted outside to enhance safety.

5.       Equipment will be cleaned and disinfected after every use.

The Pandemic Planning Team worked closely with athletics staff and performed a vigorous review of their application to the team for resuming student athlete workouts. As part of that process, they worked together on a COVID-19 prevention plan and public health protocols. In addition, staff and students will receive education about COVID-19 prevention, public health guidance and COVID-19 symptoms. The Pandemic Team and Athletics also have a plan in place for identifying and addressing any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 among student athletes or staff, which includes steps aimed to quickly mitigate the spread of the virus and contact tracing.