Mizzou AD has “every reason to believe” football practices will start next week

Mizzou athletic director Jim Sterk said he has every reason to believe football preseason practices will begin next week.

He released this statement on Monday afternoon:

“Since college athletics stopped back in March, the Southeastern Conference has not rushed its decision-making processes while working collaboratively to develop plans for all sports to return to play in the healthiest environment possible," Sterk said. "Working with Commissioner Sankey, his staff and our medical task force, I can tell you that we have not stopped trying to find ways to bring sports back in the COVID-19 environment we live in today. As of today, volleyball and soccer practices for the 2020 season are underway and we have every reason to believe that at this time football practice will begin as scheduled a week from today."

Sterk added, "By being deliberate in our decision-making processes as a conference, I believe the SEC has given its teams the best opportunity at the chance to play this fall, and while we continue to explore all options available to compete, now more than ever, it is critical that we continue to educate, support and care for our 550 student-athletes who proudly wear Mizzou’s Black & Gold.”

This comes after several reports have led to growing uncertainty regarding collegiate fall sports. Several MU football players have voiced their support for playing on social media - including tight end Daniel Parker Jr. and linebacker Nick Bolton.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey tweeted out a thread with some advice on Monday as well.