Oklahoma supporters who want to see the Sooners play Tulane in person on September 4 should be prepared to cope with strict rules about the Chinese coronavirus.
OU opens the season at Tulane in New Orleans.
Any spectators must obey these rules to enter:
- A proof of vaccination against the virus or proof of a negative test within 72 hours of kickoff
- Masks must be worn both indoors and outdoors.
Presumably, the same rules will apply when Tulsa visits Tulance on November 20.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued a mandate that Masks also must be worn. This includes indoor and outdoor events including fans attending New Orleans Saints NFL games.
The mask mandate and other restrictions apply to bars, restaurants, breweries, gyms, music venues, casinos and stadiums.
The mandate should not be unexpected, Tulane AD Troy Dannen said in a letter to Green Wave fans.
“The increase in COVID cases due to the delta variant and the low rate of vaccinations in our state has made our community vulnerable to significant health and safety concerns,” Dannen said. “It also serves as a strong reminder that in a pandemic there are expectations for all who want to participate in activities in which they share an environment with others.”
Yulman Stadium, which seats about 30,000, was opened in 2014. OU is the highest ranked team to play there so far.
“We are already relaying these additional protective measures to our peer institutions who will be visiting Tulane this fall,” Dannen said. “There are still many details regarding the implementation of the directive that we are currently working through, including developing logistical plans to effectively and efficiently ensure compliance with that directive. Tulane University will share those details in the coming days.”