Washington State soccer coach Nick Rolovich won’t be attending subsequent Tuesday’s Pac-12 media day in Los Angeles as a result of he’s not vaccinated for COVID-19, he introduced on social media.

“Because the Pac-12 Convention has required that every one in-person contributors at subsequent week’s Pac-12 Soccer Media Day be totally vaccinated, I’ll take part remotely and stay up for speaking about our soccer crew and the unimaginable younger males in our program,” Rolovich posted on Twitter. “I’ve elected to not obtain a COVID-19 vaccine for causes which can stay non-public. Whereas I’ve made my very own resolution, I respect that each particular person — together with our coaches, employees and student-athletes — could make his or her personal resolution concerning the COVID-19 vaccine. I cannot remark additional on my resolution.”

The curious assertion comes at a time when most powers that be within the sport are doing their greatest to persuade all contributors to take the vaccine to scale back the potential for one other season marred by disruptions and cancellations as a result of optimistic exams. The topic of vaccination among the many Cougars’ gamers is prone to be addressed by reporters regardless of Rolovich’s said intent to not remark additional on his personal resolution.

SEC commissioner Greg Sankey stated at 2021 SEC Media Days on Monday that six of the 14 soccer groups within the convention have reached the 80% COVID-19 vaccination threshold. Sankey additionally stated that forfeits might be a risk if groups do not need an sufficient wholesome gamers.

“Your crew must be wholesome to compete,” Sankey stated. “If not, that sport will not be rescheduled. And thus, to get rid of the sport, the forfeit phrase comes up at this level.”

OPINION: School soccer gamers who skip vaccine danger wrecking their groups

In his first look in entrance of media at Wednesday’s Atlantic Coast Convention Kickoff, newly appointed ACC commissioner Jim Phillips stated the convention will encourage, not mandate, COVID-19 vaccinations coming into the 2021 soccer season.

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“I consider vaccines are essential … in eliminating the COVID-19 virus and its variants, however I additionally deeply respect that getting vaccinated is a private alternative,” Phillips stated.

In response to most healthcare suppliers, the vaccine is protected for many eligible adults besides those that might expertise extreme allergic reactions or a small proportion of individuals with compromised immune methods.

This text initially appeared on USA TODAY: Washington State soccer coach Nick Rolovich to overlook Pac-12 media day