NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — University of Tennessee Athletic Director Phillip Fulmer announced that fans will be able to watch the Vols in-person with Neyland Stadium filled to 25% capacity.
Fulmer and Chancellor Donde Plowman attended Governor Lee's press conference Tuesday to make the announcement.
"We are preparing to play and we will remain hopeful that we will be able to do so," said Chancellor Plowman.
She said the university has been working closely with medical professionals and the Southeastern Conference.
Football players will be tested for COVID-19 once a week during practice. They will then transition to testing players three times a week once games begin on Sept. 26. They will also undergo cardiac evaluations during the season.
Director Fulmer said he hopes to have Neyland Stadium at 25% capacity (25,000 people) for home games. But traditions like the Vol Walk and the band walk will likely not happen.
He stressed the importance of everyone's efforts help keep COVID-19 cases down in Knoxville and across the state by wearing face masks.
"Community students and players...we need everyone to commit to wear a mask and be responsible," said Fulmer.
The University expects to lose $30 to $40 million due to the impacts of COVID-19, but Fulmer explained that the athletic department has taken steps to cut costs.
