Skip To Main Content
Skip To Main Content

MEC Return to Sport Plan

MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE ATHLETICS
Guide for Returning to Athletics
 
Table of Contents
  1. Introduction
  2. Education
  3. Mitigating Risk
    1. Community Standards
    2. COVID-19 Reporting
    3. Daily Self-Checks
    4. Face Coverings
    5. Physical Distancing
    6. Hand Washing
    7. Meals
    8. Cleaning and Sanitizing
    9. Mouth Guards
  4. Athletic Facilities Protocols
    1. Facility Use
    2. Athletic Training Room
  5. Transition Periods and Return to Activity
    1. Practice
    2. Competition
    3. Visiting Teams and Officials
    4. Away Games and Travel
  6. Testing
  7. Positive COVID-19 Cases and Return to Sport
    1. Strategies for Resuming Activities After Positive Test Results – Asymptomatic Individuals
    2. Strategies for Resuming Activities After Positive Test Results – Symptomatic Individuals
    3. Strategies for Resuming Activities After Positive Test Results – Pre-Existing Conditions
    4. Cardiac Recommendations for Resumption of Exercise After COVID-19 Infection
      8.  References
 
 
 
 
 
Introduction
 
In March, the 2019-20 academic year changed abruptly for everyone. As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the country, many of Medgar Evers College's student-athletes and coaches saw their seasons cut short. The closure of campus required students and faculty to transition to remote learning.  We look to return to the campus and begin our 2021-22 athletics season in the fall of 2021.  This plan will serve as our guide, but will also be a document that is evolving in relation to CDC and NCAA recommendations and New York State regulations.
 
The MEC Athletics Reopening Plan is the result of collaborative information collection, planning and strategic decision making. It relies upon information from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), as well as guidance provided by campus/CUNY leaders and experts, state/local public health officials, the NCAA, peer institutions, and the CUNY Athletic Conference. The aim is to help all student-athletes and department employees safely and confidently return to campus to pursue the opportunities for which we have such great passion.
 
This reopening plan aligns with Medgar Evers College’s plan for re-entry, as well as NCAA recommendations and New York State regulations.
 
In addition, MEC Athletics will adhere to all campus processes including the use of the Everbridge Daily Health Screening application and obtaining prior authorization for campus access.
 
Pursuant to NYS Supplemental Guidance for Athletics at Higher Education Institutions (November 23,2020), Medgar Evers College will notify and coordinate with the NYC health department on the resumption of intercollegiate sports, including but not limited to, the sharing of any applicable health and safety plans, protocols, or procedures.
 
Education
 
The issues surrounding the pandemic continue to evolve and this document is a working document that will continue to be updated. MEC Athletics will closely monitor local, state and national developments and update our standards and safety protocols as needed. The safety of all MEC student-athletes, coaches and staff will always be the top priority.
 
As relevant information continues to evolve the department will provide updates on a regular basis to all constituents of MEC Athletics, including:
  • Student-Athletes
  • Athletic department staff
  • Coaching staff
Prior to interacting with student-athletes and resuming responsibilities on campus, staff listed above will participate in meetings or other opportunities designed to educate them about the following topics and their responsibilities:
  • Institutional/athletics department COVID-19 testing process/procedures.
  • Prevention of community spread of COVID-19.
  • Alignment of institution/department policies and government/agency guidelines and requirements.
 
Mitigating Risk
 
  1. Community Standards for Health and Safety:  Due to the unique nature of intercollegiate athletics, participation and support requires taking additional measures and modifying protocols to protect the health and safety of all involved. All department staff and student-athletes are expected to fully comply with all community standards.  All team staff, athletes, and venue personnel receive training on COVID-19 safety, proper hand and respiratory hygiene, and cleaning and disinfection protocols.
  2. Return To Campus Athletics Facilities:  Athletes will be required to show a negative test, before returning to campus athletic facilities.
    1. That this test must have been performed within 72 hours (depending on test result processing times for the state) of physical return to campus.  The results for their test must be provided and reviewed by the athletic training staff prior to return.
    2. This requirement applies to student athletes, athletics staff, and coaches.
    3. Any student-athletes that tested positive for COVID-19 may be required to have a cardiac evaluation by a provider recommended by their college’s team physician or Athletic Trainer.
    4. Out of state student-athletes will be required to follow New York State quarantine protocols if they are returning from a high-risk region or country. 
  3. COVID-19 Reporting:
    1. In keeping with New York State guidelines, the Medgar Evers College Athletic Department will coordinate communication with local health departments on the resumption of intercollegiate sports, including the sharing of applicable health and safety plans, protocols, and testing procedures and results.
    2. The Director of Athletics will report all testing results, including positive test cases, to the Campus Coronavirus Coordinator, who ensures that the State and local health department are immediately notified. Further, all positive test cases are reported by the Director of Athletics to the MEC Office of Health Services, doubling the reporting procedures and follow-up protocols with positive cases.
    3. The MEC Athletics Department will be using the Abbott BinaxNOW Ag Card for surveillance testing. The associated app, Navica, also contains automatic reporting tabulations, which will send positive results to the New York State reporting agencies.
  4. Daily Self-Checks/Monitoring Symptoms:
    1. All student-athletes and employees will be required to complete the Everbridge application to be permitted on campus. In addition, the department will be using a mobile application called SWAY to monitor and assess COVID-19 symptoms of all participants on a daily basis. SWAY is an application that will further document COVID-19 symptoms and create a record for NCAA compliance. Student-athletes, coaches, and other athletics staff will be provided training and access to both Everbridge. Student-athletes will be registered in SWAY before any activity is initiated.
    2. All employees and student-athletes must conduct a daily review of COVID-19 symptoms before arriving on campus or at a practice site. Per the CDC and DOH guideline, anyone experiencing any of the following COVID-19 symptoms must not come to campus:
      1. Cough
      2. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
      3. Fever (100.4 or greater)
      4. Repeated shaking with chills
      5. Muscle pain
      6. Sore throat
      7. New gastrointestinal symptoms
      8. Sudden loss of taste or smell
      9. Congestion or runny nose
      10. Fatigue
      11. Headache
    3. If you are sick, stay home and contact the Director of Athletics or the Head Athletic Trainer to assist with getting tested.
  5. Face Coverings or Masks:
    1. MEC will procure, fashion, or otherwise obtain acceptable face coverings, and provide such coverings to their employees, players, and team staff while at work at no cost to the employee, player, or team staff.  An adequate supply of face coverings, masks and other required PPE will be on hand at all times in the event a replacement is needed. Employees and student-athletes are mandated to wear face coverings or masks at all times. The CDC suggest the following for proper wearing of face masks:
      1. Wash your hands before putting on face mask
      2. Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it over your chin
      3. Fit it snugly on the sides of your face
      4. Make sure you can breathe easily
    2. Student-athletes and staff are to use masks as defined by the CDC. No facial gaiters are to be worn by student-athletes or staff. Student-Athletes and staff will receive training on appropriate use and cleaning of face coverings per CDC guidance.
    3. All employees and student-athletes must wear a face covering or mask when inside all athletic facilities and in settings where physical distancing measures are difficult to maintain. (e.g., meeting rooms, hallways, and training areas). Masks may not be required for outdoor conditioning if appropriate distancing measures can be maintained.
    4. In accordance with NYS Guidelines, Athletic staff and coaches will ensure that “all individuals wear appropriate face coverings when in the venue at all times, except for athletes when engaged in training, warming up, or competition and broadcast media personnel when it interferes with the core activity. Players must wear a face covering while on the sidelines and not actively engaged in play." (NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Competitions with No Fans, September 11, 2020).
 
Physical Distancing
 
MEC Athletics will implement measures to ensure a distance of at least six feet is maintained during any in-person meetings. MEC Athletics will limit in-person gatherings to the greatest extent possible and will use Zoom or another form of teleconferencing whenever possible.
 
Areas such as break rooms, offices, restrooms, elevators, computer labs, lounges and conference rooms should be used only while adhering to physical distancing guidance. A facility use plan has been created for all athletic facilities. MEC Athletics will “ensure that for any training, treatment, or work occurring indoors, the total occupancy is limited to 50% of the maximum occupancy for a particular area as set by the certificate of occupancy; and ... that a distance of at least six feet is maintained among individuals at all times, unless safety or execution of the core activity requires a shorter distance (e.g. medical treatments for players).” (NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Training Facilities, June 26, 2020). Occupancy limits for such areas will be communicated with temporary signage and visual cue marks will be utilized to support physical distancing practices. Signage in accordance with the MEC Re-entry Plan will be posted throughout the athletic facilities consistent with NYS Department of Health COVID-19 signage to remind team staff, athletes, and venue personnel to:
  • Cover their nose and mouth with a face covering, except for athletes when engaged in training, warming up, or competition, and broadcast media personnel when it interferes with the core activity.
  • Properly store and, when necessary, discard PPE.
  • Adhere to physical distancing instructions.
  • Report symptoms of or exposure to COVID-19, and how they should do so.
  • Follow hand hygiene and cleaning and disinfection guidelines.
  • Follow appropriate respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette
  • All team staff, athletes, and venue personnel practice physical distancing by maintaining at least six feet of distance from other individuals or groups of people at all times
Additional information about physical distancing is available on the CDC website.
 
Hand Washing
 
For the health and safety of everyone, student-athletes and staff are reminded to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, disposable paper towels, and a lined garbage can.  If soap is not readily available, use hand sanitizer instead. Hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies will be made available to staff and student-athletes.
  1. In order to facilitate appropriate hand washing, MEC will make available the necessary supplies, including soap, running warm water, disposable paper towels, and a lined garbage can.
  2. Hand sanitizer dispensers will also be added at locations throughout athletics facilities, including at entrances and exits, at elevators, and at security/reception desks.  For hand sanitizing, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol for areas where hand-washing facilities may not be available or practical.  Touch-free hand sanitizer dispensers should be installed where possible. 
    1. Signage will be placed near hand sanitizer stations indicating that visibly soiled hands should be washed with soap and water; hand sanitizer is not effective on visibly soiled hands.
Meals
 
Staff members and student-athletes are required to eat meals outside of all athletic facilities. Delivery of food should be accepted outside of athletics facilities.  The sharing of food and beverages among employees, players, and team staff (e.g., self-serve meals and beverages), is prohibited.  All individuals are encouraged to bring food from home.  Adequate space will be made available for employees, players and team staff to observe social distancing while eating meals.
 
Cleaning and Sanitizing
 
Cleaning and sanitizing is a shared responsibility. Cleaning and disinfecting logs and/or documentation must be displayed and is required by NYS DOH.
 
Before occupants return to a venue that has been entirely closed, responsible parties must complete pre-return checks, tasks, and assessments to ensure a healthy and safe environment. These systems include, but are not limited to, mechanical systems, water systems, elevators, and HVAC systems. Medgar Evers College has performed these tasks and assessments.
 
Regular cleaning and disinfection of restrooms will occur, dependent of how frequently they are used.
 
If cleaning or disinfection products or the act of cleaning and disinfection causes safety hazards or degrades the material or machinery, Medgar Evers College will put in place hand hygiene stations for between use and /or supply disposable gloves and/or limitations on the number of employees using such material.
 
Cleaning and disinfection of exposed areas will occur in the event an individual is confirmed to have COVID-19, with such cleaning and disinfection to include, at a minimum, all heavy transit areas and high-touch surfaces (e.g. elevators, lobbies, building entrances, badge scanners, restrooms, handrails, door handles, vending machines, communal coffee stations, club houses). Medgar Evers College will close off areas (including shared building space) used by the person suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19.
 
Mouthguards
 
Use of mouthguards - Per NYS guidance, MEC Athletics will ensure that athletes perform hand hygiene before and after inserting or removing mouth guards.”(NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Competitions with No Fans, September 11, 2020)
 
Athletic Facilities Protocol
 
  1. Visitors are currently not permitted inside department facilities until further notice. Attendance at all team activities is limited to essential student-athletes and staff.
  2. Facility Use - Temporary signage and other visual cues communicate important safety information and facilitate proper physical distancing. In some areas, furniture and amenities will need to be arranged or removed.
  3. The use of locker rooms, restrooms, lounges, team benches, or similar spaces will be limited to allow for proper social distancing when not on the field of play for competitions.  Only essential team staff and athletes are allowed in designated areas (e.g., locker rooms, athlete lounges, training areas, athlete medical areas).  All non-essential common areas will be closed.
  4. When distancing is not feasible between workstations or facilities, that the college will provide and require the use of face coverings and/or Plexiglas barriers in areas where they would not affect air flow, heating, cooling, or ventilation.  The use of small space should be prohibited (e.g., elevators, staff rooms, locker rooms) by more than one individual at a time, unless all individuals in such space at the same time are wearing acceptable face coverings.  Even with face covering in use, occupancy must never exceed 50% of the maximum capacity of a space or vehicle, unless it is designed for use by a single occupant.
  5. For gatherings in enclosed spaces, occupancy will be limited to 50% of maximum capacity.  All non-essential amenities and communal areas that do not allow for social distancing protocols will be closed.  If enclosed spaces are open, hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes will be made available next to equipment near such amenities (e.g., vending machines, communal coffee stations).
  6. Athletic Training Room (ATR):  Based on CDC guidelines, social distancing should be practiced at all times based on facility capacity. Maximum occupancy for the ATR is 1-2 student-athletes.
    1. Student-athletes are required to schedule all treatments.
    2. All student-athletes are required to complete the SWAY COVID-19 Symptom check daily and have their temperature taken by an Athletic Trainer prior to entrance to the ATR.
      1. It is encouraged that student-athletes with symptoms stay home and inform the Athletic Trainer via phone or text.
      2. Recorded temperatures of 100.4 and greater will be removed from participation, and sent to get a COVID test.
    3. It is mandatory to wear a mask throughout the duration of time in the ATR.
    4. All Athletic Training staff will wear a mask and gloves during hands on therapy on student-athletes.
    5. All tables and surfaces will be wiped down and disinfected after each use.
    6. Hot packs will be covered with towels to prevent reuse of sleeves. Towels will be washed between each use.
    7. Student-athletes should not congregate in the ATR unless being treated.
  7. Laundry/Equipment Room:  MEC will comply with the State’s requirements around washing/laundering of items (as applicable). Per the ‘Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Training Facilities During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency’: “Responsible Parties must ensure that items requiring laundering be done at the warmest appropriate setting, per CDC guidelines. As per ‘NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Competitions with Fans’ “Team staff or venue personnel who handle used or dirty towels, linens, and other items that go in the laundry must adhere to the following CDC precautions:
    1. Do not shake dirty laundry
    2. Wear disposable gloves when handling laundry and hampers
    3. Use the warmest appropriate water setting in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for the items
    4. Clean and disinfect hampers after each use
    5. Wash hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol after handling laundry and removing and disposing of gloves.
 
Transition Periods and Return to Activity
 
Training plans recognize traditional transition and acclimatization considerations (for example, cardiovascular conditioning, heat, altitude). Training plans include a seven- to 10-day initial transition period during which student-athletes are afforded the time to properly progress through the physiologic and environmental stresses placed upon them as they return to required activities. Medgar Evers College Athletics will be administering a 10-day initial transition period before returning to full practice or scrimmage. Training plans are made considering relevant industry resource materials including, among others, those published by: NYS DOH Travel Guidelines, NCAA Resocialization for Collegiate Sport.  According to the DOH’s “Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Training Facilities During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency”, only individual workouts are permitted at team facilities during this transition period; group practices (e.g. scrimmages, pick-up games) are prohibited.
 
Practices
 
  1. In order to minimize the risk of transmission for intercollegiate athletics, the following practice policies and procedures will occur:
    1. Student-athletes, coaches, officials and game day athletics staff must complete a daily questionnaire such as Everbridge and/or Sway.
    2. Temperature checks will be performed by ATC or designated staff prior to entering the athletic facility.  All screeners will be provided and use PPE, including at a minimum, an acceptable face covering, and may include gloves, a gown, goggles, and/or a face shield.
    3. Positives for any of the following symptoms will rule the student-athlete out of practice and they must remain at home, until cleared by team physician:
      1. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
      2. Cough or other respiratory symptoms.
      3. Headache.
      4. Chills.
      5. Muscle aches.
      6. Sore throat.
      7. Congestion or runny nose.
      8. New loss of taste or smell.
      9. Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
      10. Pain, redness, swelling or rash on toes or fingers (COVID toes).
      11. New rash or other skin symptoms.
      12. High-risk exposure: a new contact with an infected individual or prolonged contact with a crowd without physical distancing (for example, attended a party in which there was no masking or physical distancing).
      13. Temperature of 100.4° Fahrenheit or above.
    4. Emergency Warning Signs Include:
      1. Trouble breathing
      2. Pain or pressure in the chest that doesn’t go away
      3. Experience confusion or trouble waking up
      4. Bluish lips or face
  2. If any student-athlete reports symptoms after arrival on campus, the athletic trainer, athletics administration and CCO must be contacted, and the individual will be referred to a healthcare facility if necessary or home to self-isolate.
  3. Student-athletes must wear masks upon entry to campus athletics buildings and continue to wear them for the duration of their time inside. Masks do not need to be worn during exertion. Because they were not shown to provide good protection against aerosolized particles, Gators and face shields are not mask alternatives and cannot be worn without a mask.
  4. Prior to the beginning of their season, each student-athlete that is confirmed officially on the team, will receive a water bottle. They will be required to label the bottle with their name and are prohibited from sharing water bottles. If a water bottle is misplaced or forgotten, the athlete will be provided with disposable cups, for single use only.
  5. Water bottles, as well as single-use food items, will be provided in low-or-no touch dedicated spaces (e.g., in a designated room, spaced out on a table), with only one player present in the space at any given time. Those players waiting in line to enter the room must maintain six feet of distance from one another. Student-athletes must not drink directly from the spout of any coolers. Coolers will be cleaned immediately after the conclusion of each practice.
  6. Players and individuals charged with restocking the room will be required to  perform hand hygiene before and after entry and wear a mask while in the room.
  7. Treatment towels will be single use only and placed in a sealed laundry container immediately after use. Dirty towels will be laundered within 24 hours. Towels will not be provided to student athletes and coaches for practice. They must bring their own individually labeled towels. Sharing towels will be strongly prohibited.
  8. Practice start times will be staggered to assist with social distancing.
  9. There will be strong avoidance of intermingling between teams.
  10. Practice group sizes will be in line with the New York State Guidelines and NCAA SSI recommendations. Social distancing will be maintained, and practice drills must consider social distancing guidelines as well as the required 2-week acclimatization process.
  11. Teams must use predetermined routes when entering and exiting practice.
  12. Student-athletes are not permitted to use fields or facilities outside of approved practice times.
  13. Coaches should exercise the option of electronic whistles.
  14. Any equipment used will be sanitized accordingly, post practice.
  15. Common indoor or outdoor seating areas which are utilized during practices will contain modified seating arrangements to ensure that individuals are at least six feet apart in all directions.
  16. Student-athletes and coaching staff must wash their hands frequently, especially pre and post practice. Hand sanitizer will be readily available on site.
  17. Coaches must maintain adequate social distancing at all times.
 
***Provisions will be made for students-athletes utilizing the hybrid or remote synchronous class settings to allow them a space to succeed. These study areas / computer rooms will be available for student-athletes that cannot make it home in time for class or have classes that may overlap with practice times. These areas will be sanitized before and after each use.
 
Competition
 
In order to minimize the risk of transmission for MEC College intercollegiate student-athletes, coaches, staff and officials, the following competition policies and procedures will occur:
  1.  A “Site Safety Monitor” will be designated for competitions, whose responsibilities include continuous compliance with all aspects of the site safety plan and guidance.
  2. An athletics department designee will coordinate with campus public safety to ensure that competition policies and procedures are carried out.
  3. As per CUNYAC, “Spectators are not permitted” and “there will be a NO FAN policy in place within the CUNYAC until further notice. CUNYAC Public Safety in conjunction with the Home Game Administrator will be used at all games/contests to enforce this policy”.
  4. One way travel will be utilized in all stairwells, hallways, entrances and exits whenever possible.
  5. Spacing guidelines and predetermined routes will be mapped out to allow for one way travel.
  6. Visiting teams will be asked to comply with all face covering and physical distancing procedures.  All individuals must wear appropriate face covering when in transit to competitions.
  7. Student athletes, coaches, officials and game day athletics staff must complete a daily questionnaire such as Everbridge and/or Sway. They will be notified ahead of time and must complete the questions, except for temperature screening, in their entirety. Anyone, who does not complete the information prior to campus entry, will not be permitted to compete on that day.
  8. Athletic trainers or designated senior staff will perform temperature checks on home and visiting teams as well as coaches, officials and game day staff.  All screeners will be provided and use PPE, including at a minimum, an acceptable face covering, and may include gloves, a gown, goggles, and/or a face shield.
  9. Establish visiting and home team locker rooms and /or meeting space.
  10. Positives for any of the following symptoms will rule the student-athlete, coach, official or game day staff member out of the competition and they must remain at home, unless cleared by the team physician:
    1. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
    2. Cough or other respiratory symptoms.
    3. Headaches.
    4. Chills.
    5. Muscle aches.
    6. Sore throat.
    7. Congestion or runny nose.
    8. New loss of taste or smell.
    9. Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
    10. Pain, redness, swelling or rash on toes or fingers (COVID toes).
    11. New rash or other skin symptoms.
    12. High-risk exposure: a new contact with an infected individual or prolonged contact with a crowd without physical distancing (for example, attended a party in which there was no masking or physical distancing).
    13. Temperature of 100.4° Fahrenheit or above.
  11.  Emergency Warning Signs Include:
    1. Trouble breathing
    2. Pain or pressure in the chest that doesn’t go away
    3. Experience confusion or trouble waking up
    4. Bluish lips or face
  12. Any student-athlete, coach or official that reports symptoms after arrival on campus, will be sent home or the emergency action plan will be triggered if necessary.
  13. Student-athletes, coaches, officials and game day staff must wear masks upon entry to the building and continue to wear them for the duration of their time inside the building. A decision on whether masks will be used during competition, will be made at the CUNYAC office’s discretion. It is required that masks be worn whilst student-athletes are in the locker rooms, on the bench and during intervals such as half time. Student-athletes must use masks immediately following the conclusion of the competition.
  14. Taping/Wrapping for visiting teams should be performed by their own athletic training staff prior to departure. If this is not possible, arrangements should be made between the home and visiting team’s athletic training staff should a visiting team’s athlete require taping/wrapping at least 12 hours in advance. Visiting teams will be required to provide the necessary supplies as needed.
  15. During competition, student-athletes, coaches and officials should limit their contact time with each other as best as possible. Celebrations, high fives, handshakes and huddles are not permitted. During time outs, all efforts should be made to maintain a social distancing, but it is understood that this may be difficult.
  16. Student-athletes must bring their own water bottles and should not share with others. Single use individual bottles of water, sports drinks or other hydrating fluid will be allowed, but must be clearly labeled with the owner’s name.
  17. Treatment towels will be single use only and placed in a sealed laundry container immediately after use. Dirty towels will be laundered within 24 hours. Towels will not be provided to the visiting team student athletes and coaches for competition. They must bring their own individually labeled towels. Sharing is strongly not permitted.
  18. During gameday set up, benches will be placed an acceptable distance apart in order to maintain social distancing regulations. Individual seating of gameday staff and officials will also be staggered to accommodate these regulations. Sports that require switching of benches during competition will forgo this and remain on one side for the duration of the event.
  19. For pregame and transitions between games (doubleheaders/MTE), teams must return fully to their locker room with two minutes left in the preceding game.  Teams must wait for permission to enter the floor once cleared by the previous teams and appropriate sanitation procedures have been executed.
  20. Sports that require equipment sharing including balls, bats and helmets, will need regular sanitization during the competition, by either game day workers or coaching staff members.
  21. Officials should exercise the option of electronic whistles.
  22. Spectator attendance will be determined by New York State guidelines and institutional guidelines.
  23. Post competition sanitization of benches, equipment and high contact surfaces will be undertaken by college custodial staff with EPA approved products.
 
Visiting Teams and Officials
 
In order to keep MEC College a safe and sanitary environment, we will ensure all visiting teams have maintained safety guidelines before interacting with our student-athletes. We will ask all visiting teams to certify they have complied with all NCAA and NYS travel guidelines.  This includes:
  1. Visiting team must provide a travel roster 24 hours prior to arriving on campus.
  2. Travel roster must include verification COVID-19 symptom screen was completed.
  3. Visiting team must wear masks while on campus.
  4. The bus driver/company must supply proof of negative Covid-19 test (performed within 24 hours) before the team boards the bus.
  5. Upon arrival at MEC College, visiting teams and officials will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms. This includes temperature checks and self-evaluation via a questionnaire (Everbridge, SWAY). If any individual is flagged during these screenings, they will be removed from competing and sent to isolate. The visiting team’s ATC will be notified and a decision on whether to continue competition will be made by the Athletic Trainer and Athletic Director.
 
Away Games and Travel
 
When our teams travel to other institutions clear guidelines will be set to guarantee a limited risk of exposure. These guidelines must be followed when on the away campus and the duration of the trip itself. This will include necessary rest stops or lodging needed during these trips. A staff member will be assigned to ensure all travel specifications are followed including those governed by NYS DOH Travel Guidance and NCAA Resocialization of Collegiate Sport; Second Edition.    The protocol for away game travel is as follows:
  1.  NYS DOH protocols will be followed at all times
    1. Travel documents completed when necessary
    2. Follow up testing will be completed when necessary
  2. When traveling we will communicate and comply with all agreed upon protocols requested by home institution.
  3. Masks are required while traveling to all events, including bus drivers, and each travel party will be given sanitization kits.
  4. Individuals on travel team must temperature check before leaving campus
    1. Athletic trainer must be notified if someone is not leaving from campus
  5. Travel Party form will be completed by respective head coach and provided to home institution prior to departing campus.
  6. Only required personnel and student-athletes will be included in the travel party to allow for appropriate social distancing when traveling.
  7. All members of the travel party will be required to wear masks for the duration of the trip.
  8. No stopping during travel.
  9. All travel meals must be individually boxed and eaten socially distanced.
  10. Vehicles must be sanitized before and after use.
 
Testing Policies
 
  1. Testing costs and reliability are the major issues to consider when incorporating rigorous testing for returning student athlete training and competition. Athletes will be required to show a negative test, before returning to campus athletic facilities. MEC COVID-19 guidelines are designed to mimic those of the NCAA as seen below. Current testing recommendations, as per the NCAA Sports Science Institute (SSI), indicate that PCR testing is the preferred method for ruling out the presence of COVID-19. The frequency of testing within the intercollegiate athletics realm is contingent on several factors that include the amount of sustained contact, whether the sport is indoors or outdoors and testing accessibility and cost. In keeping with NCAA SSI guidelines, the risk levels for all sports are:
    1. Low contact risk: cross country, outdoor track & field.
    2. Intermediate contact risk: indoor track & field, volleyball (with mask wearing).
    3. High contact risk: basketball, soccer, volleyball (without mask wearing),       cheerleading/tumbling.
  2. The NCAA recommends frequent follow up testing for student-athletes and all “inner bubble” personnel. The “inner bubble” includes student-athletes, coaches, ATC’s and essential team personnel.
    1. Low Contact Risk Sports:
      1. Surveillance PCR testing in conjunction with a university plan for all students.
      2. Symptomatic testing and high contact risk testing to be performed as needed.
    2. Intermediate Contact Risk Sports:
      1. In-season PCR testing once weekly of all student-athletes, plus “inner bubble” personnel whose physical distancing, masking and other protective features are not maintained.
      2. Symptomatic testing and high contact risk testing to be performed as needed.
    3. High Contact Risk Sports:
      1. In-season PCR testing three times weekly (non-consecutive days) for all indoor sports, or once weekly for all outdoor sports of all student-athletes, plus “inner bubble” personnel whose physical distancing, masking and other protective features are not maintained.
      2. During out-of-season athletic activities, surveillance PCR testing should be performed as with Intermediate Contact Risk Sports.
      3. Symptomatic testing and high contact risk testing to be performed as needed.
 
Positive COVID-19 Cases and Return to Sport
 
Once someone has or is suspected to have COVID-19, all CUNY and NYS guidelines for isolation and quarantine will be followed. If a student athlete, coach or staff member suspects that they have contracted COVID-19, they should begin isolation immediately. The athletic trainer and administration should also be immediately notified so that they can begin contact tracing. They can contact their primary care physician or visit New York State health department website to obtain information about testing.  When considering the risk of exposure and contracting COVID-19, we need to understand the three-tier system:
Tier 1: This is the highest exposure tier and consists of individuals for whom physical distancing and face coverings are not possible or effective during athletic training or competition. Examples of relevant individuals include student-athletes, coaches, athletic trainers and physical therapists, medical staff, equipment staff and officials. Tier 1 individuals may differ from school to school (for example, some coaches always maintain physical distancing and therefore are not part of Tier 1). Tier 1 individuals are at higher risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 if any other individual in the group is contagious and masking/physical distancing has not been maintained.
Tier 2: This is a moderate exposure tier and consists of individuals who come into close contact with Tier 1 individuals but can reasonably maintain physical distance and use face coverings. Examples of relevant individuals include certain team staff (e.g., executives) and certain operational staff (e.g., security, event staff and league staff).
Tier 3: This is the lowest exposure tier and includes individuals who provide event services but do not come into close contact with Tier 1 individuals (and should this occur, would be reclassified into Tier 2). Examples of relevant individuals include certain operational staff (e.g., housekeeping, catering, sanitation and transportation) and media/broadcast. If the individual who tests positive is within the tier 1 category, it is recommended that all those within that tier 1 group also start isolation immediately. This includes coaches and athletic training staff. Individuals who previously tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to three months (for example, even after a high-risk exposure) if they do not develop symptoms again. However, if such individuals develop symptoms consistent with COVID19, they require reevaluation and may need to be tested again if there is no other cause identified for their symptoms.
 
Strategies for Resuming Activities After Positive Test Results
 
  1. Asymptomatic Individuals:  Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 but have not developed any symptoms may discontinue isolation 10 days after the date of their first COVID-19 diagnostic test, (time-based strategy) assuming they have not subsequently developed symptoms. If symptoms do develop, this time-based strategy should not be used, and the symptom-based strategy should be used instead (see below).
  2. Symptomatic Individuals:  Individuals who test positive and are symptomatic should remain in isolation until:
    1. at least 10 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared, AND
    2. resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours
    3. Other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving
  3. Pre-Existing Conditions:  For certain populations, including those containing individuals with conditions that may weaken their immune system, a longer isolation timeframe for infected individuals may be needed and should be decided by team physician to minimize the chance of prolonged shedding of the virus.
  4. Cardiac Recommendations for Resumption of Exercise After COVID-19 Infection: Student-athletes with a confirmed past infection (antibody or prior diagnostic test), and mild to moderate illness or asymptomatic, (i.e., managed at home):
    1. A medical evaluation or routine pre-participation exam can be performed, including a symptom screen. o Electrocardiogram and echocardiogram can be considered.
    2. Further workup as indicated in conjunction with a cardiologist. • Student-athletes with a confirmed past infection and severe illness (hospitalization) or ongoing cardiovascular symptoms (>14 days from onset of symptoms):
    3. Medical evaluation with symptoms screen.
    4. Additional testing, which may include:
      1. Cardiology consultation, electrocardiogram; blood troponin 48 hours after exercise and echocardiogram.
      2. Consider additional cardiac tests such as cardiac MRI, Holter, stress test, chest X-ray, spirometry, pulmonary function tests, d-dimer and chest CT. All final decisions on return to play will reside with the team physician. Exercise Recommendations for Resumption of Exercise after COVID-19 Infection Student-athletes with new infection and no symptoms.
      3. Exercise in isolation is permitted if such exercise does not cause cardiopulmonary symptoms.
      4. Monitor for development of symptoms during isolation.
      5. Cardiac recommendations as above, including consideration of echocardiogram for asymptomatic and mild illness.
      6. Further work-up as indicated in conjunction with a cardiologist. Student-athletes with new infection and mild illness (common cold-like symptoms without fever):
      7. No exercise for at least 10 days, or longer if symptoms persist.
      8. Monitor for symptom development with exercise.
      9. Cardiac recommendations as above, including consideration of echocardiogram for asymptomatic and mild illness.
      10. Further work-up as indicated in conjunction with a cardiologist. Student-athletes with new infection and moderate illness (fever and flu-like illness):
      11. No exercise for at least 14 days, or longer if symptoms persist.
      12. Monitor for symptom development with exercise.
      13. Cardiac recommendations as above.
      14. Further work-up as indicated in conjunction with a cardiologist. Student-athletes with new infection and severe illness (hospitalized):
      15. For more severe illness, hospitalization, or ongoing cardiovascular symptoms, a comprehensive medical evaluation and cardiology consultation is recommended.
      16. Consider cardiac MRI. Student-athletes placed in quarantine for high risk contact but who are not infected with COVID-19:
      17. Exercise in quarantine is permitted if such exercise does not cause cardiopulmonary symptoms.
      18. Monitor for development of symptoms during quarantine.
      19. If symptoms develop, with or without exercise, test for SARS-CoV-2. All final decisions on return to play will reside with the team physician.
 
References
 
  1. NCAA COVID-19 Home Page
  2. NCAA Resocialization of Collegiate Sport: Developing Standards for Practice and Competition, Second Edition Updated December 15, 2020
  3. NYS Supplemental Guidance for Athletics at Higher Education Institutions November 23, 2020
  4. NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Teams Traveling Outside of New York State and Contiguous Border States November 6, 2020
  5. NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Competitions with No Fans September 11, 2020 NYS Interim Guidance for Professional Sports Training Facilities June 26, 2020
  6. NYS Interim Guidance for Sports and Recreation During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency January 22, 2021
  7. Abbott BinaxNOW Antigen testing and Navica Connect
  8. CUNYAC Return to Sport Plan
  9. Center for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 Home Page
  10. Center for Disease Control & Prevention: Colleges, Universities and Higher Learning Page
  11. American College Health Association (ACHA) COVID-19 Resource Page
  12. American College of Sports Medicine