Following intense demands from athletes, families, and President Donald Trump, the Big Ten has relented on its stance to delay collegiate sports until the upcoming year.
The announcement, made on Wednesday, confirms that games will resume from the weekend of October 23. The current strategy is for each squad to engage in an eight-game autumn session.
In a gathering of the Council of Presidents and Chancellors on Tuesday, a unanimous vote was cast to recommence the program. Just a month ago, the decision was 11-3 in favor of postponing the autumn matches, with only Ohio State, Iowa, and Nebraska opposing the proposition. The primary reason cited for the earlier delay was the well-being and safety of players and the general public amidst the pandemic situation.
While Big Ten teams can normally welcome crowds of up to 100,000 for major contests, it is expected that games will be played in empty arenas or with restricted attendance until the virus threat diminishes.
The change of heart was influenced by pressures from coaches, families, the US President, and a legal challenge from players. Trump promptly expressed his support for the decision following the unanimous revote.
The availability of swift COVID-19 testing solutions was not a viable option at the time of the last council vote. The recent advancements in testing accessibility played a significant role in prompting the reconsideration. Starting from September 30, the Big Ten confirmed the initiation of daily testing for players, coaches, and support staff.
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