AAC Putting Restrictions On Bands, Cheerleaders To Start CFB Season

The AAC has “implemented a strict set of football game day guidelines for marching bands and spirit squads,” according to a source cited by Jason Munz of the Memphis COMMERCIAL APPEAL. The orders include “no travel to road games for any school's band or spirit squad and no on-field performance for the home team's band.” The home team's band can be in the stadium, though it could “feature a reduced capacity and will be required to practice social distancing.” Also, the home team's “spirit squad,” which includes cheerleaders, “will not be allowed on the field to start the season.” The restrictions will be “re-evaluated as the season progresses." The AAC is “believed to be the first in Division I to issue such a directive, as efforts to minimize coronavirus-related risks continue" (Memphis COMMERCIAL APPEAL, 6/25).