NCAA updates resocialization plans as student-athletes prepare for return to campus

With the NCAA’s decision to end its moratorium on organized team activities beginning June 1, many schools are planning to welcome student-athletes back to campus in early-to-mid June. Now that only a few days remain until the end of the dead period, the association has updated its resocialization plans.

The NCAA has released a three-phase plan as student-athletes prepare to return to campus. The initial guidelines were created in April, with some adjustments coming as parts of the country begin the reopening phase.

“Every community is different, and schools may return to campus at different times. But each will have to balance the need to return with the top priority of protecting student-athlete health and well-being,” NCAA Chief Medical Officer Brian Hainline said. “Until there is a vaccine in place, medical experts recommend adopting specific practices — including testing and social distancing when possible — and having plans in place for stopping spread if and when staff or students test positive for the coronavirus.”

A handful of B1G schools have already stated that they plan to bring student-athletes back to campus in the coming weeks. There will be small groups allowed back on campus at staggered times over the next two-to-three weeks.

Nebraska plans to return June 1 and Illinois announced a June 3 return date. Ohio State and Iowa are preparing to have student-athletes back by June 8.

You can view the NCAA’s three-phase plan here.

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB