As the fall draws closer and closer, more clarity and details are being provided as to how USC plans to return its players to campus and prepare for a 2020 football season.
And on Wednesday, USC added further clarity to its plans for incorporating fans at games this season in the Coliseum.
While all these matter remains fluid, tenuous and ever-evolving, the athletic department felt confident enough in its current plan to send out a message Wednesday that was shared with reporters, stating: "We are actively planning to allow fans to attend games at the Coliseum this season. Though we expect that capacity will be dramatically reduced."
USC asked its season-ticket holders to "opt in" or "opt out" so it can assess the interest level and continue to work on the logistics of determining what a USC football crowd in the Coliseum might look like in the fall.
That included this important caveat:
"Please understand that these plans are subject to change, and we are committed to following state and local guidelines to ensure a safe environment at the Coliseum. As such, it remains a possibility that we may not be permitted to allow any fans to attend home games during the 2020 season," the letter stated.
USC also assured fans "you will not lose your priority seating location or experience any other negative impacts for 2021 should you exercise your right to opt-out of this season."
If the plan moves forward for having some number of fans in the Coliseum for games this fall, it would also come with the following stipulations:
-"In recognition of the fact that there are many factors outside of our control, we will consider a full 2020 season to include four (4) or more home games."
-All fans will be required to wear a face mask for the duration of the game.
-Tailgating, the Trojan Walk, the Band Walk, and Fan Fest will be significantly limited and potentially removed altogether as a result of social distancing guidelines.
-Concession stands, restrooms, elevators, United Airlines Coliseum Clubs, and other private and public premium spaces throughout the Coliseum will adapt to follow social distancing guidelines and capacity will be limited.
USC is asking its season ticket holders to respond with their decision by July 9.
