As Stony Brook University is internally debating what measures need to be taken to combat the spread of coronavirus, Stony Brook Athletics has begun taking preemptive measures of their own. 

The department announced in a press release on Monday, March 9, that they are monitoring attendance of all indoor sporting events and will allow fans the opportunity to acquire tickets at a safe distance from other spectators. Ticket sales will be concluded at noon on each game day, and tickets will no longer be available for purchase at the doors.

Island Federal Arena will be hosting two significant events this week with these restrictions being implemented, the Men’s Basketball semifinal between Stony Brook and Hartford on Tuesday, March 10, and the Women’s Basketball final between Stony Brook and Maine on Friday, March 13. Should the men’s team advance to the finals and not top-seeded Vermont, the arena will also host the men’s final on Saturday, March 14.

Athletics also announced that they would be increasing the sanitation level for the venue, by increasing the number of cleaning staff on hand, providing hand sanitizer for guests and encouraging a “no handshake” policy. For fans that are uncomfortable with attending the events but already are in possession of tickets, there is a refund policy in effect at the ticket booth.

These precautions are currently being taken only for indoor athletic events, and will not be implemented at outdoor events yet. Some of the outdoor sports that are currently still running include both Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball, Tennis and Track and Field. 

The situation surrounding the virus is rapidly changing. Please stay tuned for updates.