University athletics resuming voluntary workouts

Based on the advice of medical professionals and the results of testing on Monday (July 13) of all student-athletes currently in training, The Ohio State University Department of Athletics announced today that it will resume voluntary training operations after the suspension of workouts last week.

All student-athletes from the seven sports that returned last month to voluntary workouts were tested Monday, and the results were received today. The last round of testing was July 7, resulting in the suspension of training on July 8. 

Ohio State Athletics Director Gene Smith said the athletes will be tested routinely moving forward and training decisions will continue to be re-evaluated by medical staff to protect the health and safety of students. A strict set of protocols is in place requiring physical distancing, masks, hygiene and cleaning procedures. 

“Our Buckeyes are excited to be headed into a new school year and were disappointed last week when we had to temporarily suspend training,” Smith said. “These young people come from across the nation and the world to be part of our Ohio State family, and we do everything we can to create a safe, healthy environment so that they have a chance to study and compete. Our medical team will continue to evaluate, and we will share decisions as we move forward.”

To protect the individual medical privacy of the student-athletes, the university will not release information about the test results. 

Teams with student-athletes on campus taking part in training activities are men’s and women’s basketball, field hockey, football, men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.