AMHERST, N.Y. — The news does not come as a surprise, but New York State made if official on Tuesday. Fans will not be allowed to attend college sporting events this fall.
The decision falls in line with the one Governor Andrew Cuomo made about professional sports.
The larger question really is whether college games will be played at all this fall. There is a long list of conferences that have already postponed fall seasons due to COVID-19.
The Mid-American Conference, of which the University at Buffalo is a member, is still scheduled to play football games this fall.
Athletic director Mark Alnutt issued this statement in reference to the governor's ruling:
"We understand and support the health and safety guidelines put forth by Governor Cuomo.
"We currently are seeking further clarification regarding fans at collegiate sporting events and will move forward appropriately under the state’s guidance and in accordance with UB’s own health guidelines.
"The health of our student-athletes, coaches and staff as well as the entire University at Buffalo and Western New York community is our top priority. We will continue to work diligently to practice the proper safety protocols that will allow us to play sports this fall. We hope that by following these steps, we’ll be able to have our fans safely back in the stands soon."
