Things are starting to slowly reopen, and that includes the football facility at Ohio State according to a report from The Columbus Disptach (subscription may be required).
A university spokesman confirmed to The Dispatch that 25 coaches and staff members are now permitted to use the facility, but must rotate on a schedule involving three-hour blocks of time on a staggered shift for three days a week.
The Woody Hayes Athletic Center has been closed since March when the COVID-19 pandemic was starting to grip the country. That meant OSU staff and coaches had to work from home over the last couple of months, and that the players were also sent home as a measure to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Coaches have had to get creative with Zoom meetings and teleconference to not only meet with players, but to stay in touch with recruits during that time.
Despite the reopening of the facility, it’s mainly just the offices that will be used until further notice. The dining room, weight room, training room, indoor field, and locker room all remain closed.
Additional measures have also been put in place. Some health and safety protocols will be a part of daily life. That includes temperature checks and daily symptom assessments for those entering the facility. Social distancing, the wearing of masks, and a limit of ten people in meeting rooms will also apply.
The Big Ten’s ban on organized activities is set to expire at the end of this month, but there is not yet a timetable for the return of athletes until a further determination is made.
