The SEC has released guidelines for the 2020 swimming & diving season, which can start as early as October 1 amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
SEC swim teams can begin their official seasons as of October 1, 2020, with the regular season set to end on January 25, 2021. That stretch will mostly be limited to dual meets, though the SEC release does say some other formats – like triangular meets or invitationals – could be possible if overall participation numbers are limited and social distancing can be followed.
Here are a few more details from the SEC release:
- Season can begin no earlier than October 1, 2020
- Regular season must end no later than January 25, 2021
- Dual meets only
- Unless “alternative strategies are identified to limit the overall number of participants to ensure appropriate distancing.”
- No limit on the number of events
- Competition must be against regionalized opponents
The SEC is generally the first Power-5 conference to begin the postseason in swimming & diving. The SEC Championships are typically in mid-February. There’s no official word yet on the status of the conference championship meet.
Athletes who choose to opt out of the season based on pandemic-related health concerns will have their scholarships honored.
The news means that SEC programs could begin competition within about two and a half weeks. Typically, college dual meets begin as early as September, but the coronavirus pandemic has pushed the start date back as colleges work to resume classes and sports safely.
Lets get rid of politicians ALL politicians and just hang out, do our thing, get tan, drink a little tequila and do a little dance! Of course wearing masks, social distancing and with virtual sports.
Fingers crossed this happens. I wonder if this plan will survive October given football starting.
No dual meets with Kentucky…..
Wonderful news👍👍👍
Very good plan! If for some reason a team has high positive rates, they must not compete (like UK). Even if there are only 2 or 3 teams which can compete still good. Vandy has a chance to win the SEC title this season!
So no fall Invites?
Hopefully there are less restrictions by then, but you could see teams doing dual/tri meets over multiple days (cost permitting) where swimmers are rested and suited.
SEC- it just means more!
It means you’re aren’t winning the title
It means they teach you proper grammar!😉
Got me, your a genius
*** You’re
I really really hope you were joking😳
I hope those Big Ten Presidents are paying attention. We don’t have to cower in fear!