SEC limits access to fans at conference tournament, all sporting events

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (KMIZ)

The SEC will limit access to its conference tournament games and all sporting events temporarily.

Mizzou will play Texas A&M on Thursday at 6 p.m. in the SEC Tournament with only essential staff, limited family and credentialed media.

According to a news release, similar restrictions will also be in place for regular season contests in all sports on SEC campuses and SEC Championship events. Those restrictions will be effective Thursday, March 12 through at least March 30.

On March 30, the conference said it, along with its member universities, will re-evaluate.

"We regret the inconvenience and disappointment this decision has caused our fans, especially those who have already traveled to Nashville for the tournament," SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said.

The news release included a statement from MU Athletics Director Jim Sterk, who said this is a rapidly changing and very fluid situation.

“At this time, Mizzou’s athletic teams are continuing to prepare for postseason and regular season completion as scheduled. Daily team activities and practices will continue until further notice and we continue to monitor developments," Sterk said. "Decisions for team travel will be made on a case by case basis, but there are no changes to announce at this time. The athletics department takes direction from the University which is in constant communication with the Boone County Health Department, state and national officials."

Sterk went on to say Mizzou supports the SEC and NCAA decision to limit attendance.

The announcement comes after the NCAA decided to limit attendance to its upcoming men's and women's tournaments.

Other conferences such as the ACC, Big West and Big 12 have also announced similar decisions to limit attendance. On Tuesday, the Ivy League decided to cancel its conference tournament altogether.