WVU Announces No Spectators For Baylor Game on Oct. 3

In a press release this afternoon, West Virginia University announced there will be no spectators permitted for WVU’s home game against Big 12 rival Baylor on Oct. 3.

“I understand it’s a disappointing decision but it’s the correct one. We have to do what’s best for the safety of the University and our local community,” WVU Athletics Director Shane Lyons said in the release. “Our plans for a socially distanced seating manifest in the stadium have been ready for some time, but we need conditions to improve on campus and in the community before we can proceed. I encourage everyone to test when the opportunity to do so is made available.”

The release said this decision was made in conjunction with local and state officials. Only essential game operations personnel and family members of players and staff will be allowed. The same attendance limitations were in place for WVU’s season opener against Eastern Kentucky on Sept. 12.

The release also stated that plans to allow WVU Cheer squad members and the Pride of West Virginia marching band to participate are being finalized.

“I continue to ask Mountaineer Nation for its understanding,” Lyons said. “We are doing everything possible to have fans at our home football games this season, and I can assure you that our players, coaches and department staff want that to happen. Taking aggressive and appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of this virus along with regular testing remains the key for all of us.”

The Big 12 announced this morning that the game between the Mountaineers and Bears on Oct. 3 will begin at noon and be broadcast on ABC.