GREENSBORO, N.C. — North Carolina A&T State University is making changes to its homecoming events and home football games this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
University leaders said the Department of Athletics will require fans to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 for all home football games this fall or provide negative COVID-19 test results 72 hours prior to gain entry.
PROOF OF VACCINATION
Fans will need to provide proof of vaccination either through an original vaccination card or a printed or digital copy. The university said in absence of proof, fans must show they have received a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event to attend.
KIDS UNDER AGE OF 12
The university said unvaccinated fans under 12 years of age will also be required to take a COVID-19 test within 72 hours before the game to provide proof of a negative result before entering the game zone.
HOMECOMING CHANGES
The university also announced changes for the Greatest Homecoming on Earth including canceling the parade, Aggie Fan Fest and the annual student activities-sponsored Greek cookout.
MASK UP
Masks must also be worn for any events taking place at the Greensboro Coliseum.
OTHER HOMECOMING EVENTS
The university will also require those attending the step show and homecoming concerts to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test results to gain entry.
“The leadership of the university understands that Aggie Pride is strong, and we are working diligently every day to make sure that the safety of our students and alumni are top of mind,” said Teresa M. Davis, associate vice chancellor for Alumni Relations. “Aggies, let’s do our part and keep everyone safe by getting vaccinated or showing proof of a negative COVID-19 test.”
Homecoming festivities will take place for students and alumni during the week of Oct. 24-31.
COVID-19 VACCINATION, TESTING
Vaccination and testing are available on Tuesdays at the North Carolina A&T Alumni Foundation Event Center, 200 N. Benbow Road. No appointment is necessary, and walk-ins are welcome.
The Associate Vice-Chancellor of Alumni Relations Teresa Davis, says she knows people are disappointed about the recent changes but keeping the community safe is a top priority.
"We just have this hiccup in our history right now that's not only affecting us, it's affecting everyone. We just have to get past. "
A downtown worker, Edward Kirby, says there is usually major foot traffic during homecoming. He says the cancellations of events puts a damper on incoming business.
According to the president and CEO of the Greensboro Convention and Visitor's Bureau GHOE normally brings in an economic impact of 12 million dollars. He says with the cancellations, he doesn't know where that money will now fall, but it will have a negative impact.
Davis says she understands these new changes may have an economic impact on the city, but she hopes this will educate people on the importance of getting the COVID-19 vaccine.