UTEP President Heather Wilson and Director of Athletics Jim Senter announced today that UTEP's football game against North Texas this Saturday (Oct. 31) will be played with no fans in attendance.
The game will kick off at noon Mountain time and will be played before a national television audience on CBS Sports Network.
There has been no evidence of community spread from the Miners' first two football home games because Miner fans did the right things. While sporting events like those at UTEP were exempted from limitations, local health officials have asked residents to stay home at this time unless they are performing essential activities.
"Miner fans have been terrific in following best health practices at our football games," Wilson said. "They have been doing the right things – wearing masks, social distancing, staying in assigned seats combined with a reduced seating capacity has kept everyone safe. At the same time, the disease levels around us are high, and, in support of El Paso's efforts to keep people home, we have decided not to allow fans at Saturday's game."
Senter added, "Student-athlete infections have been nearly non-existent due to their diligence in following the recommended safety protocols and the frequency of testing. While we believe that our department and our fans have followed all of the best practices to ensure a safe experience, the disease is at very high levels around us. We understand El Paso's desire to encourage people to stay home this weekend."
Only coaches, student-athletes, support staff, officials, medical personnel and media with a working function at Saturday's game will be permitted into the Sun Bowl.
Decisions on fan attendance for future games will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis.
"We encourage Miner fans to stay home, stay safe, and watch Saturday's game on CBS Sports Network," Senter said.
All season ticket holders and single-game ticket holders will be contacted within the coming days regarding refund options.
