Duke University has decided to go ahead with its fall sports programs but the school will do so without fans in attendance.
According to a post on the school’s website, Duke will at least begin its season without fans.
"To be sure, our venues will not be the same without our passionate, energetic fan base," said vice president and director of Athletics Kevin White. "Given the unique and challenging circumstances, this determination was reached with the health and safety of our fans, student-athletes, coaches and staff at the forefront. As this evolving process continues, it is imperative to be both adaptable and compliant in anticipation of hosting fans in the near future."
Any contests played on campus will include only essential game management personnel and broadcast media.
Traditional parking lots used by fans on game day will be closed.
Duke said that fans who have purchased season and single-game tickets for the upcoming football season or have seating and suite contracts in Blue Devil Tower will receive email correspondence regarding options.
Following the lead of Major League Baseball Duke fans have an opportunity to support the team at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium with a "fan cutout" of an individual(s) or pet(s). Several different packages are available and include stadium location options, weekly prize drawings and the ability to have the cutout autographed by head coach David Cutcliffe.
The school hopes images placed in the seats will help replicate the game day atmosphere in the stadium as well as provide an enhanced visual presence for the television audience. Proceeds from sales will go directly to Duke Athletics to support our student-athletes.
Information regarding the virtual fan experience for football games at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium will be available at a later date.
