Alabama Not Requiring Vaccination Proof or Negative Test for Home Games
The University of Alabama, despite recent pressure from LSU declaring their requirements home game attendance, has apparently made the decision to push forward with its original plans for capacity at Bryant-Denny Stadium, meaning Saturdays in Tuscaloosa will be at full capacity and fans will not be required to submit proof of vaccine or a negative COVID-19 test to enter.
Although the University has opted to not require either of these, Nick Saban continues to advocate for the vaccine, saying in his most recent press conference, "As excited as we are about the opportunity to have a full stadium, I think we want to have a full stadium that's safe for the people in it."
Like Saban, Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne has taken media opportunities to stress the importance of the vaccine. In a radio appearance this week, Byrne said, "Going into this year, what we decided was that we were going to control what we can control. What we can control is advocating for the vaccine for our student athletes, our fan base and within our communities.", Byrne continued, "We've been guided by our medical doctors who have given us great advice throughout this and have helped educate out student athletes and staff."
The Crimson Tide open their home schedule against Mercer on Sept. 11, and without an official statement from the University, the decision to move forward with previously laid out plans could be subject to change, but until then, Bryant-Denny stadium will be completely back to normal.