Sports for all SEC programs are officially on hold until at least April 15. Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin confirmed in an open letter to Gator fans posted on the team’s official website that the sports suspension means that all UF athletic facilities, except for sports health and academic advising, will be shut down during that time.

The timing of the outbreak is rough on Florida fans as many teams were having spring success. UF men’s basketball was projected to make the NCAA Tournament. Gator baseball was ranked No. 1 after its 16-0 start (before a Tuesday-night home loss to rival Florida State). Florida gymnastics went undefeated in regular-season competition (10-0).

Stricklin also addressed ticket refunds in his full letter, below:

Dear Gators:

As you know the coronavirus is a global issue that has obviously had an impact on collegiate athletics and the Gator program.

During the last several weeks, we have continued to work with Southeastern Conference and campus leadership, along with the expertise of local, state and federal health officials to make decisions centered around the health and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans.

The SEC announced today that all league competition and team activities are suspended until April 15. This includes voluntary and required team and individual practices and workouts.

In addition, University Athletic Association is closing all team areas in its athletic facilities until at least April 15, with the exception of its sports health and academic advising units. The department will continue to provide health, nutrition, mental health counseling and academic support to our student athletes during this time.

Our student-athletes will continue to follow campus guidelines and we are encouraging them to leave campus. Their education will remain on-line.

For those fans that have purchased tickets to any scheduled events, the Gators Ticket Office will automatically refund all ticket purchases for events scheduled to take place from March 13 to April 15. Refunds will be processed back to the form of payment used for the original purchase. All purchasers will be contacted once the refund is processed.

While athletics is centered around competition, it is imperative that we address this issue through a community lens and do whatever is best to reduce the risk of exposure and spread of coronavirus.

I am grateful for your support of the program and I know as Gators we will do our part in working together through this unprecedented time.

Sincerely,

Scott Stricklin

Florida football’s spring practice was scheduled to begin on Monday (March 16) until the SEC’s announcement.