The updated protocols, which were recommended by the ACC’s Medical Advisory Group, include increased testing and additional cardiac evaluation standards for student-athletes who test positive for the virus. 

Under the new protocols, ACC athletes that compete in football, field hockey, men’s and women’s soccer and volleyball are expected to be tested three times each week during the season, beginning with the week of the first competition. In football, one test must be performed the day before that week’s game and another within 48 hours of the conclusion of the game. The test that is administered the day before competition will be conducted by a third party that will be selected by the ACC office.

If a student-athlete does test positive for coronavirus, they must undergo a thorough cardiac evaluation that includes an electrocardiogram, a troponin test and an echocardiogram before returning to action. The enhanced cardiac evaluation comes over growing concern over myocarditis,a heart condition that occurs in some COVID-19 patients. Myocarditis is one of the reasons that the Big Ten and Pac-12 opted to cancel their fall seasons. 

In addition to the updated testing and cardiac evaluation protocols, the ACC also announced Friday that it has adjusted its football operations and game management protocols for the 2020 season. According to the ACC release, the updated protocols will “eliminate all non-essential personnel from the sidelines and team auxiliary areas.” Any one that is deemed essential to be on the sidelines will be required to have a temperature screening and symptom check and must wear a mask.