NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Vanderbilt University announced its fall athletics season will begin without spectators at home events through the end of October.
Vice chancellor for athletics and university affairs and athletic director Candice Lee said the decision to delay fan access is due to “safety concerns brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“We understand the impact this decision to compete without spectators has on both our fan base and our student-athletes, but this is the right thing to do for us because of the current challenges posed by COVID-19. Given factors in play at Vanderbilt, such as playing in the heart of a city, we feel this decision is in the best interest of our students, fans, game day staff, and the greater Nashville community,” Lee said in part. Read her full statement here.
Instead, fans will have access to virtual programming for home football games, including a virtual tailgate, live pregame show, and chances to win prizes and connect with other fans.
University officials say more details on those events will be provided leading up to Oct. 3, when Vanderbilt is scheduled to play LSU in its home opener.
The university says fans who purchased season tickets will soon be receiving communication from the Vanderbilt Athletics ticket office regarding options for the upcoming season.
