He called the Big Ten’s decision, which the league has termed postponement, “a temporary delay” and said Ohio State is “actively planning for the winter and spring seasons for all sports, including the return of football.”
Though no games will be played, Ohio State will continue to provide academic support, strength and conditioning training, sports psychology assistance and skill instruction among other services.
Smith also expressed thanks to incoming university president Kristina M. Johnson, parents and the athletes themselves.
“The university has implemented robust health-and-safety measures, including physical distancing, face mask and hygiene requirements throughout our campuses and classrooms, testing and contact tracing protocols, wellness resources, and more,” Smith continued.
“We can all help our student-athletes get back to competition as soon as possible by doing our part: No social gatherings of more than 10 people, wearing our masks, washing our hands and keeping at least 6 feet apart.
Big Ten commissioner lists reasons for decision to cancel fall season https://t.co/oTwRlNamRZ
— Marcus Hartman (@marcushartman) August 19, 2020
“Together as Buckeyes, we can do this. It will require all of our students, faculty and staff doing their parts, along with the broader community, to stay safe and healthy and fight the spread of the virus. We are optimistic that Buckeyes will do what we always do, step up, band together and get the job done.
“The Ohio State University is confident that we have the safety protocols and rigorous safeguards in place for our student-athletes to practice and return to competition immediately.”
Smith concluded by expressing a hope “our medical experts will continue to learn more about COVID-19 and its effects, our society at large will respond to the requests to implement measures/protocols that contribute to a safe and healthy environment for all, and our research scientists will be successful in their quest to develop a vaccine.”
About the Author
