Students who want to participate in varsity sports with the University of Windsor this fall will have to make sure they have both jabs of the COVID-19 vaccine first.
On Thursday, UWindsor's department of athletics and recreational services announced that it will require all student athletes and student athletic therapists, to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with two Health Canada-approved vaccines. Those who have not been vaccinated must have their first dose by August 31 and their second by no later than October 1.
Director of Athletics at UWindsor Mike Harvey said the university believes that mandating a vaccine policy for student athletes will ensure a safer return to competition.
"As we continue to navigate this pandemic and move closer towards a return to varsity competition, it is critical that we do so with the health and safety of everyone at the top of our minds," Harvey said.
Provisions have been put in place for those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons under grounds protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Otherwise, Lancer athletes interested in competing will have to provide the university with their vaccination status by August 31.
The athletics department added it will also implement rapid testing in September for those who aren't fully immunized.
While a vaccine policy has been implemented for student athletes, UWindsor has already stated that it will not require students living in residence to be fully vaccinated.
"We strongly encourage all residence students to get vaccinated prior to moving into residence. Residence is a community living environment and, as a result, you will have more interactions with other people than you would in your home environment. Being vaccinated helps to ensure your safety as well as the safety of all members of our community," read a quote from the university's fall 2021 move-in information page.
UWindsor said it has prepared for a safe return to campus this fall by implementing strict health and safety measures including capacity limits in campus buildings. It is also offering a variety of course delivery modes, daily self-assessments and mandatory masks while indoors.
