Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
PROVO — It’s far from normal, as professional and college sports have come to a standstill amid the coronavirus pandemic.
But BYU fans who bought tickets to upcoming events — be they in volleyball, baseball, softball or any other sport that fall under the athletic department’s umbrella — will be reimbursed, athletic director Tom Holmoe said in a prepared statement and accompanying video released Tuesday.
“BYU athletics is prepared to make good on the tickets that were purchased to home events that have been canceled,” Holmoe said. “If you’ve purchased tickets for canceled events, you’ll be receiving additional information directly.”
Holmoe said the athletic department is also working closely with BYU Broadcasting, on television and radio, to provide regular updates, news and information as things change. That includes the yet-to-be-determined process regarding the NCAA’s plea to provide eligibility relief for all spring sport athletes who had their seasons abruptly ended.
Most importantly, however, is the process of dealing with the new normal, as terms like “social distancing” and “flattening the curve” seep into the public consciousness. It’s for this reason that sports have taken a bit of a backseat to public health, and BYU officials are working actively to maintain the health of their players, coaches and personnel.
“We now rely on all areas of our preparations prior to the outbreak to help us respond in positive and productive ways, as we chart new courses moving forward to deal with the challenges and opportunities ahead,” Holmoe said. “My prayers are with all of you that you will be safe from harm’s way and be able and willing to assist in the much-needed planning for our immediate and future recovery.”
All students, including student-athletes, will finish winter semester via online coursework, and additional instruction will come from the Church Educational System and Board of Trustees, including top authorities in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, regarding a return to campus for future classes.
“The wonder of modern technology allows us the opportunity to stay connected while apart and still continue to strengthen relationships,” Holmoe said. “Our coaches are eager to continue mentoring their student-athletes in this transition. It’s been heartwarming for me to see the love and compassion these coaches have for their athletes.
"It’s wonderful to see how much these athletes and coaches want to be there for each other. They have learned valuable lessons and gained hard-to-match experiences battling together as teammates prior to this present challenge. Their faith is strong and their hope for the future is bright.”
