TUCSON, Ariz. – The University of Arizona Athletics Department's Re-Entry Planning Team has released its phased approach to a safe and healthy return to campus. Under the guidance of the University of Arizona's Re-Entry Task Force, Arizona Athletics' plan calls for student-athletes to begin voluntary physical activities in facilities beginning on Monday, June 15 in conjunction with guidelines from the NCAA and Pac-12 Conference.

Starting on June 15 with members of Arizona Football, the plan calls for groups of 20 or 30 student-athletes to return to campus each week to be screened and tested before participating in voluntary workouts in pods of 10 while adhering to physical distancing and enhanced safety protocols. The procedures of the plan also follows federal, state and local health guidelines as prioritization of return for student-athletes was given to those participating in the fall.

"The phased re-entry of student-athletes is the next step in Arizona Athletics' commitment to a safe and healthy return to campus," said Vice President and Director of Athletics Dave Heeke. "This comprehensive plan to bring student-athletes back to campus is a collaboration between our athletics department and campus partners with key guidelines, protocols and procedures. I want to thank President Robbins and University leadership for their guidance and vision for bringing Wildcats back to campus. There are many factors that remain beyond our control, and our athletics department will still face some uncertainty before completely reopening. However, our intent remains a return to competition."

Part of the re-entry process is Arizona's health and safety protocols for those returning to campus in the coming weeks that follow the University's "Test, Treat, Trace" philosophy. Other key infection mitigation protocols include:

• Wellness checks
• Mental health screening
• Screening
• Physical distancing
• Facial or mask covering
• Hand washing
• Nutrition
• Hydration
• Enhanced education on COVID-19

While Arizona Athletics' plan outlines key testing and treatment measures, it also increases focus on continual education on the key day-to-day measures for all Wildcats.

The athletics department will continue to release more information and updates on its flexible and adaptive plan for re-entry in the coming weeks as we continue to fulfill our commitment to the safe and healthy return to campus.