Brian Kelly Sends Notre Dame Players Home and Suspends All Football Program Activities

The sports world is being rocked by the fears surrounding coronavirus. The NBA was the first to suspend play and the NCAA has followed that lead by cancelling conference tournaments.

It is easy to forget about how all of this impacts both professional and college football too. Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly released a statement reminding us that everyone is being affected. He has sent his players home and canceled team activities.

To our team, our fans and to all - stay safe. pic.twitter.com/Eqxnm8XrmA
— Brian Kelly (@CoachBrianKelly) March 12, 2020

Spring is an important time for college football teams. Practices are held on a regular basis and spring games can sometimes attract a stadium full of fans. Cancelling everything is a huge step, and the right one.

"I have asked our student-athletes not to return to campus until further notice."#NotreDame suspends spring football. https://t.co/MZwUQ7y7aQ pic.twitter.com/6BMNaSZhN7
— Notre Dame on NBC (@NDonNBC) March 12, 2020

Other programs will likely follow suit as it will become far too risky and also irresponsible to have amateur athletes continuing to practice when professional leagues are suspending play. The seriousness of the situation should begin to start hitting home for those who have taken it lightly up to this point.