USL Championship 2021 Return To Play Protocols

Return-to-Play Protocols
Version: as of May 4, 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Introduction ................................................................................................................ 1
A. General .................................................................................................................. 1
B. Enforcement .......................................................................................................... 2
C. Contacts ................................................................................................................. 2
II. Social Distancing Requirements ............................................................................ 3
A. Generally. .............................................................................................................. 3
B. Masks. ................................................................................................................... 3
C. Academy Players; Non-Team Activities. .............................................................. 3
D. Consistent Partners – Limiting Close Contacts ..................................................... 4
III. Preparations ............................................................................................................ 5
A. High Risk Medical Conditions/Concern About Returning. .................................. 5
B. Establishing the List of Covered Persons.............................................................. 7
C. Return to Market (Resumption of Training). ........................................................ 7
D. PPE/Supplies. ........................................................................................................ 8
E. Log. ....................................................................................................................... 8
F. Health Officer........................................................................................................ 8
IV. Screening.................................................................................................................. 9
A. Survey.................................................................................................................... 9
B. Temperature Checks.............................................................................................. 9
C. Home Team Checks. ............................................................................................. 9
V. Full Squad Training and Treatment ................................................................... 10
A. Timing. ................................................................................................................ 10
B. General Training Protocols. ................................................................................ 10
C. Treatment Protocols ............................................................................................ 11
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D. Facility Access .................................................................................................... 12
E. Weight Room Protocols. ..................................................................................... 12
F. Cleaning Protocols. ............................................................................................. 13
VI. Visiting Team Training Prior to Match Day ...................................................... 14
A. Protocols for Visiting Team Training. ................................................................ 14
B. Walk-Throughs.................................................................................................... 14
C. Requesting Use of Training Facility. .................................................................. 14
D. Maintaining Social Distance. .............................................................................. 14
E. Home Team Obligations. .................................................................................... 15
VII. Media/Broadcast................................................................................................ 17
A. Appearances. ....................................................................................................... 17
B. Promotional Video Shoots/Interviews. ............................................................... 17
C. Broadcast. ............................................................................................................ 17
D. Press Box. ............................................................................................................ 18
E. Media Access. ..................................................................................................... 18
VIII. Match Day Protocols ......................................................................................... 19
A. Arrival to Venue .................................................................................................. 19
B. Locker Rooms ..................................................................................................... 20
C. Pregame/Warmups .............................................................................................. 22
D. Procession............................................................................................................ 22
E. In-Game Operations ............................................................................................ 23
F. Scrimmage Protocols........................................................................................... 25
IX. Travel ..................................................................................................................... 26
A. Bus Travel ........................................................................................................... 26
B. Air Travel ............................................................................................................ 27
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C. Hotels. ................................................................................................................. 28
D. Requirements for Members of the Traveling Party. ............................................ 29
X. Monitoring, Testing, Quarantine, and Isolation ................................................ 30
A. Testing Set-Up..................................................................................................... 30
B. Quarantine/Isolation Set-Up................................................................................ 30
C. Treatment Set-Up. ............................................................................................... 30
D. Away Market Plan............................................................................................... 30
E. Testing ................................................................................................................. 30
F. Additional Self-Quarantining Obligations. ......................................................... 35
G. Medical File......................................................................................................... 36
H. New Covered Persons. ........................................................................................ 37
I. Quarantine/Isolation ............................................................................................ 37
J. Regular Reporting Protocol................................................................................. 39
K. Positive Case Protocol......................................................................................... 39
L. Suspected False Positive. .................................................................................... 40
XI. Stadium Operations .............................................................................................. 42
A. General ................................................................................................................ 42
B. Preparations ......................................................................................................... 42
C. Entry .................................................................................................................... 42
D. Fan Ingress .......................................................................................................... 43
E. In-Venue Precautions .......................................................................................... 45
F. Exit ...................................................................................................................... 50
List of Exhibits:
III.A.1 List of High-Risk Medical Conditions

III.B.2 Waiver/Assumption of Risk Document for Academy Players
Page iii of iv
IV.A Questionnaire / Log

VIII.A.1 Bus Seat Mapping
Page iv of iv
I. Introduction
A. General
On March 12, 2020 the USL Championship temporarily suspended its 2020 season in light
of the COVID-19 crisis and the World Health Organization’s classification of the disease as a
pandemic. The USL was not alone in this decision, joining every other major American sports
league in ceasing play while – as a society – we grappled with how to manage the virus. Shortly
thereafter, we began work putting together these Return-to-Play Protocols (these “Protocols”),
which are designed to protect the health and safety of all involved, and we have continued to
modify them as circumstances have changed and we have come to learn more about the virus.
USL consulted with a variety of stakeholders in the development of these protocols. As

an initial matter, the league’s Board of Governors created a “Hiatus Task Force” to dive deeply
into issues related to health and safety. Members of the Hiatus Task Force were nominated by
the teams and then selected based (in part) on their relationship with other leagues grappling with
the same issues. Through that process, we were able to understand many of the best practices
instilled by Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball,
and the National Women’s Soccer League. To this end, USL also actively participated in the
United States Soccer Federation’s COVID-19 task force, through which it worked closely with
MLS and NWSL to share best practices specific to the soccer context. The USL Players
Association (“USLPA”) reviewed, commented on, and provided input to the 2020 Protocols, the
USLPA bargaining committee approved them, and they were ratified by its membership. The
USLPA has continued to review, comment on, and provide input to the 2021 version of these
Protocols, the USLPA bargaining committee once again approved them, and they have again
been ratified by its membership.
Most importantly, USL consulted early and often with a broad array of medical experts
about the nature of the virus, when it would be safe to effectuate a return to play, and what protocols
should be in place to mitigate risk. These experts include Dr. Jon McCullers, Sr. Executive
Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs and Chief Operating Officer at the College of Medicine at the
University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Dr. Howard Chrisman, the President of
Northwestern Medical Group at the Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine; and Dr. George
Chiampas, the Chief Medical Officer of the United States Soccer Federation. Although no activity
can ever be completely risk free, our experts agree that these protocols are reasonable and rigorous
– and that moving forward under these protocols involves a medically acceptable level of risk.
If teams cannot comply with any of the requirements (e.g., because of their venue
infrastructure), they should contact the league as soon as possible to devise an alternative,
medically acceptable plan, which shall be subject to League Office approval.
It is also possible that, in some cases, these Protocols will be less strict than the guidance,
recommendations or requirements of applicable state and local health authorities (“Health
Authority Guidance”). In these cases, teams and players must comply with the Health Authority
Guidance. Put differently, these protocols are intended to supplement (and not replace) Health
Authority Guidance.
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These Protocols remain subject to change and, as the situation evolves and we learn more
about the novel coronavirus, we may update these Protocols as appropriate. Finally, where these
Protocols conflict with provisions of other 2021 manuals, these Protocols shall control.
B. Enforcement
1. With respect to players, these Protocols are enforceable as part of the “League
Rules” and “Club Rules” with which they are required to comply in accordance
with the terms of their Standard Player Contract. In accordance with the terms of
the Standard Player Contract, any discipline imposed upon a player for any non-
compliance with League Rules or Club Rules (including the Return-to-Play
Protocols) must be reasonable. Teams shall provide notice (written or verbal) to
the Player prior to the imposition of any discipline for non-compliance with these
Protocols. Absent exceptional circumstances, the team shall also provide notice
(written or verbal) to the USLPA-designated team representative (the “Team
Rep”) prior to the imposition of such discipline. Teams agree that, absent
repeated violations, minor, inadvertent non-compliance with these Protocols shall
not subject a player to discipline. If a team is unsure of the identify of its Team
Rep, it should contact Brett Luy (brett.luy@uslsoccer.com).
2. If a player (or any other Covered Person) notices any non-compliance with these
Protocols, they should communicate such non-compliance to the Health Officer at
the applicable Team. Each Team Rep will be made aware of its Team’s Health
Officer. If, after communicating such non-compliance to the Health Officer, the
situation is not promptly resolved, players should contact the USLPA, while any
other Covered Persons should contact (brett.luy@uslsoccer.com). The USL and
USLPA will then work together to address the issue in question.
C. Contacts
If you or your medical advisors have any questions whatsoever about these Protocols,
please notify the following League Office contacts via email: Brett Luy
(brett.luy@uslsoccer.com) and Garrison Mason (garrison.mason@uslsoccer.com). We will
answer your questions or (if appropriate) refer you to the league’s medical consultants.
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II. Social Distancing Requirements
A. Generally.
1. All players and team personnel who interact with players (collectively, “Covered
Persons”) should generally self-quarantine, except to attend to team activities and
perform essential functions such as grocery shopping, medical appointments,
haircuts, personal hygiene appointments, physical therapy, drug store visits,
hiking and running (subject to social distancing), banking, take-out food, auto
repair, visits to governmental authority, day care and school visits. Covered
Persons wishing to obtain or maintain outside employment must seek and receive
approval from their team, which the team may grant or deny in its reasonable
discretion, taking into account the safety risk posed by such outside employment,
among other relevant factors and circumstances. When performing essential
functions, Covered Persons should wear masks and socially distance wherever
practicable. As a reminder, all activities remain subject to any restrictions
imposed by applicable Health Authority Guidance.
2. Except for Covered Persons who live together in the same unit (“Roommates”),
Covered Persons should socially distance from each other and from third parties
wherever possible.
3. The only exceptions are in cases where social distancing is impossible or highly
impracticable under the circumstances (e.g., training, matches, air travel). In such
situations, these individuals should wear masks and carry individualized bottles of
hand sanitizer, washing and sanitizing hands as frequently as possible. Teams
shall use good faith efforts to provide (or otherwise make available) reasonable
quantities of hand sanitizer for Covered Persons to fulfill their obligations under
these Protocols.
B. Masks.
Other than during active participation in a match or training, Covered Persons should
always wear masks if they are likely to come into close contact (i.e., generally within six feet) of
any other individuals.
C. Academy Players; Non-Team Activities.
1. If an academy player is going to train or otherwise participate in team activities,

he is considered a Covered Person and, accordingly, must comply with all of the
requirements set forth in these Protocols with respect to Covered Persons,
including with respect to the social distancing guidelines set forth throughout
these Protocols).
2. Notwithstanding paragraph 1 above, Academy players are not prohibited from

training with their academy team. However, if an academy player does
train/participate with his academy team at any point during the season, such
player must undergo the “re-integration” process set forth in Section X.E.2 prior
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to returning to the professional team. Teams should be aware that any

training/participation with an academy team will result in a waiting period while
the initial test results are being processed. As more fully set forth in Section
X.E.2, and consistent with the treatment of trialists and other new Covered
Persons, during the “reintegration” period an academy player may participate in
outdoor training with the Team once the initial test has been returned as negative,
but may not participate in other team activities (including travel, weight training,
film sessions) until both the first and second tests have been returned as negative
(as required by the “re-integration period” protocols set forth in Section X.E.2).
a. Exception: For players on a residential academy team (e.g., RSL

academy) subject to protocols (including testing protocols) at least as
stringent as these Protocols are not subject to the reintegration
obligations/restrictions
3. Academy players should use their reasonable best efforts to make use of any
online schooling options available to them to limit their time physically present at
school. However, (notwithstanding Section II.C.1 above), an academy player’s
in-person attendance at school is permitted and considered an essential function,
provided that commensurate online classes are not also readily available to such
academy player (as may be determined at the reasonable discretion of the Team).
4. Covered Persons may not attend to or conduct any activities which would be
inconsistent with the language and purpose of Section II.C.1 above. Accordingly,
Covered Persons may not attend to or participate in soccer camps or clinics (or
conduct any other activities which are likely to unnecessarily cause them to come
into Close Contact with other persons, consistent with Section II.C.1 above).
D. Consistent Partners – Limiting Close Contacts
Throughout the year, there will likely exist certain situations in which Covered Persons
are not reasonably able to socially distance from other Covered Persons. By way of examples: a
Covered Person may be unable to obtain a seat on a flight that is not in close proximity to
another Covered Person; a Covered Person may have to carpool with another Covered Person
to/from practice; or a Covered Person may need a weight room partner. The Team and each
Covered Person must use their best efforts to ensure that, if two Covered Persons are naturally
paired together or are in situations where they are likely to be in Close Contact (such as in the
foregoing examples), the same individuals should continue to be paired together (wherever
practical) whenever social distancing is impracticable. Again, by way of example, if two
Covered Persons already carpool to/from practice, they should not then have separate partners in
the weight room.
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III. Preparations
A. High Risk Medical Conditions/Concern About Returning.
1. The League will continue to make educational materials about COVID-19

available to Covered Persons, including: (1) common-sense mitigation steps
Covered Persons should take; (2) a list of conditions which make particular
individuals at higher risk of a “severe illness” (defined by the Center for Disease
Control as “hospitalization, admission to the ICU, intubation or mechanical
ventilation, or death”) (a “High-Risk Medical Condition”)1; (3) a prohibition on
any Covered Person reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity if
they: (a) are feeling sick, (b) are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or (c) have
had “Close Contact” with anyone who has a diagnosed or suspected case of
COVID-19. As used in this Agreement, the term “Close Contact” is as defined by
the Center for Disease Control and currently means “[someone] who was within 6
feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-
hour period 2 starting from 2 days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic
1
The CDC has established a list of “certain underlying medical conditions” which render individuals “at
increased risk for severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19. Severe illness from COVID-19 is
defined as hospitalization, admission to the ICU, intubation or mechanical ventilation, or death.” The
CDC differentiates between conditions, and whether such conditions would mean that adults with such
conditions “are at increased risk of severe illness” or “might be at an increased risk for severe illness.”
However, for purposes of this document, the League is adopting both sets of conditions, with the
exception of smoking, as “High Risk Medical Conditions.” The language from the CDC website,
including links to the associate conditions, is included in Exhibit III.A.1.
2
The CDC also includes the following note in connection with the 24-hour period referenced in the
definition:
Individual exposures added together over a 24-hour period (e.g., three 5-minute exposures for a
total of 15 minutes). Data are limited, making it difficult to precisely define “close contact;”
however, 15 cumulative minutes of exposure at a distance of 6 feet or less can be used as an
operational definition for contact investigation. Factors to consider when defining close contact
include proximity (closer distance likely increases exposure risk), the duration of exposure
(longer exposure time likely increases exposure risk), whether the infected individual has
symptoms (the period around onset of symptoms is associated with the highest levels of viral
shedding), if the infected person was likely to generate respiratory aerosols (e.g., was coughing,
singing, shouting), and other environmental factors (crowding, adequacy of ventilation, whether
exposure was indoors or outdoors). Because the general public has not received training on
proper selection and use of respiratory PPE, such as an N95, the determination of close contact
should generally be made irrespective of whether the contact was wearing respiratory PPE. At
this time, differential determination of close contact for those using fabric face coverings is not
recommended.
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patients, 2 days prior to test specimen collection) until the time the patient is
isolated.”3
2. Clubs should encourage Players to contact them if they are concerned about
returning or continuing to work, including because they or a Household Family
Member have developed or become aware of a High-Risk Medical Condition.
3. Clubs should consult with Players expressing such concerns, considering the
possibility/advisability of putting in place additional measures to reduce their risk
of exposure to the virus while in Club facilities or on the road with the Club (e.g.,
additional Personal Protective Equipment (“PPE”) or social distancing measures).
In doing so, Clubs should seek guidance from the Club physician.
4. If the Club and the Player expressing concern identify a medically acceptable plan
to mitigate risk that is agreeable to both the Club and the Player, this plan shall be
signed by the Club, the relevant Player, and (as needed) the Club physician or
health care consultant.
5. If the Club and the Player expressing concern are unable to identify a medically
acceptable plan to mitigate risk, the following applies (subject to the Families
First Coronavirus Response Act and other applicable laws):
a. If a Player is expressing concern because, after having signed the

Standard Player Contract, he or a Household Family Member has
developed or has become aware that they have a High-Risk Medical
Condition, the Club may not require the Player to play during the 2021
season unless or until such time that the Player or Household Family
Member (as applicable) may reasonably conclude his or her
vaccination against the virus. In such instances, (i) the Player must
promptly notify the Club of the change in circumstances and keep the
Club informed as to any vaccination efforts and (ii) the Club shall
continue to pay the Player pursuant to Section 5(b)(iii) of the Standard
Player Contract.
b. If a Player is expressing concern but (i) the reason is something other

than that he or a Household Family Member has a High-Risk Medical
Condition (e.g., because he has a generalized fear), or (ii) the High-
Risk Medical Condition was developed prior to the Player’s execution
of the Standard Player Contract, or (iii) the Player played professional
soccer at any point after March, 2020, the Club and the Player should
nonetheless negotiate in good faith for a release with respect to the
3
“Close Contact”, when used as a description, has a corollary meaning (i.e., a statement that an individual
has had Close Contact means that he/she has been within 6 feet of an infected person for a cumulative
total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period*starting from 2 days before illness onset (or, for
asymptomatic patients, 2 days prior to test specimen collection) until the time the patient is isolated).
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2021 season. However, if the Club and the Player are unable to
negotiate a release, the Club may elect for both parties (Player and
Club) to be released of their respective obligations under the Standard
Player Contract for 2021 or, in the alternative, to terminate the
Player’s Standard Player Contract (subject to applicable laws).
6. Further, if the Player is expressing concern over a High Risk Medical Condition,
the Club may require documentation (or other reasonable forms of evidence)
confirming to the Club’s satisfaction that: (a) such Player or Household Family
Member (as applicable) does, in fact, have a High-Risk Medical Condition; (b)
such High-Risk Medical Condition was discovered only after the execution of the
Standard Player Contract; and (c) as applicable, the Household Family Member
does, in fact, reside with the Player.
B. Establishing the List of Covered Persons.
1. Each team should generate a list of up to forty (40) Covered Persons. Each team
must send the list of Covered Persons to the League prior to resuming full-squad
training. During the course of the season, team personnel who are not Covered
Persons may not have “Close Contact” with team personnel who are Covered
Persons.
2. All players, including any rostered academy players or players on loan from
other teams, are considered Covered Persons. Academy players must also sign
the Waiver and Assumption of Risk document included in Exhibit III.B.2.
3. In order to add an individual to the list of Covered Persons during the course of
the season, including by accepting a trialist, the team should follow the Protocols
referenced in Section X.H (“New Covered Persons”).
C. Return to Market (Resumption of Training).
1. Generally. Prior to commencing full team training, a Covered Person must

adhere to the “re-integration” period protocols set forth in Section X.E.1. At any
point thereafter, if the Covered Person takes a personal trip outside of the home
market, the team physician should determine, upon such Covered Person’s return,
whether such Covered Person needs to be subject to an initial quarantine before
interacting with team personnel (e.g., if they are returning from a high risk area)
based upon applicable Health Authority Guidance. However, if a Covered Person
leaves the home market for longer than 72 hours (except under Team
supervision), he or she must adhere to the “re-integration” period protocols
described in Section X.E.2.
2. MLS Clubs / National Team Duty. If a Covered Person is leaving his or her home
market for longer than 72 hours to attend to national team duties and remain under
similar or more stringent protocols during such time period, no re-integration
period is required unless otherwise advised by the Team physician. Similarly, if a
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Covered Person transitions directly from the “bubble” of an MLS club to the
Team, no re-integration period is required unless otherwise advised by the Team
physician.
D. PPE/Supplies.
Teams are responsible for procuring masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes for
Covered Persons for use at team-facilities and during travel, consistent with these Protocols.
E. Log.
For purposes of facilitating contact tracing, Covered Persons must provide daily records
of which other Covered Persons they have come into Close Contact. Covered Persons must also
record whether they have come into Close Contact with any individuals (including non-Covered
Persons) that were diagnosed with or otherwise experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. The
Questionnaire is included in Exhibit IV.A, although teams may add additional questions as they
deem reasonably necessary or advisable.
F. Health Officer.
Each team should designate one or more Health Officers, with such individuals being
responsible for reviewing and implementing these Protocols in good faith, as well as for
enforcing these Protocols as to his/her team’s Covered Persons (players, technical staff, and
others within the testing pool). One Health Officer should be a senior level executive and may
not be a member of the technical staff (e.g., President, GM). The other should be in the
Traveling Party (e.g., the ATC). The League will establish training/education obligations for
Health Officers. In the event a Health Officer changes, the relevant team should consult the
League to determine what training/education the new Health Officer should undergo.
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IV. Screening
A. Survey.
In general, prior to reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity, Covered
Persons should be surveyed/screened as to whether they: (a) are feeling sick, (b) are experiencing
COVID-19 symptoms, or (c) have had close contact with anyone who has a diagnosed or
suspected case of COVID-19. Anyone who answers affirmatively should not report and,
additionally, timely consult with the team physician regarding the Quarantine, Isolation, and
Testing Protocols. The Questionnaire to be used is included as Exhibit IV.A, although teams
may add additional questions as they deem reasonably necessary or advisable.
B. Temperature Checks.
Upon reporting to training, treatment, or any other team activity, Covered Persons shall
be subject to temperature checks, to be administered by the Health Officer or such other person
the team may designate. The individual administering temperature checks shall have access to
appropriate PPE. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4°F or above shall immediately return
home. Any Covered Person with a temperature of 100.4°F or above shall consult with the team
physician regarding the Quarantine, Isolation, and Testing Protocols.
If the team believes that temperatures may be inflated due to the summer heat or walk
from a vehicle, it may establish “cool down” zones adjacent to temperature check areas. These
“cool down” zones are meant to allow body temperature to come down to “normal”. Individuals
in the “cool down” zone must continue to socially distance, as applicable.
C. Home Team Checks.
The home team may check the visiting team’s temperatures upon arrival at the home
team’s facility, consistent with the process described above. This would be in addition to each
team checking its own Covered Persons’ temperatures pursuant to Section IV.B.
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V. Full Squad Training and Treatment
A. Timing.
Players and other Covered Persons may report to team facilities for full-squad contact
training only once the team complies with (i) the Protocols set forth below and (ii) any applicable
Health Authority Guidance. Any team beginning training must do so pursuant to a plan that is
approved by the team physician.
B. General Training Protocols.
1. Training should be limited to the training facility; unless the only available
option, training in the stadium is not permitted.
2. With the exception of Roommates, Covered Persons should not come to training
together (i.e., they must maintain social distancing, as set forth in the
introduction). However, if Covered Persons must ride together (due to no other
practical alternatives), they should distance from each other to the greatest extent
possible, wear masks throughout the trip, and ensure adequate air circulation
within the vehicle. Additionally, except as necessary for active training, players
and staff should socially distance from each other to the extent practicable during
the training session. For example, players should not gather closely together to
hear coaching instructions, particularly for any prolonged period of time. In these
circumstances, players should be spaced out as much as practicable.
3. From the time they leave their residence for training until the time they return,
players and staff should wear masks, as a best practice, except when actively
training, by themselves, or only with their Roommates. This includes during team
meetings, in the locker room, while on the sidelines, etc., except that players who
have just completed active training may have a “cool down” period before they
put on a mask, provided they are socially distanced. Wearing masks is
particularly important if social distancing between those who are not Roommates
is impossible (e.g., if it is necessary to carpool to training).
4. Any surfaces (e.g., benches; door handles) which players may touch during
training or on their way to and from training must be disinfected prior to and after
the training session. In the locker room, weight rooms, or other indoor areas
where multiple players are likely to touch the same surface, surfaces should be
disinfected (e.g., by wiping down with an approved cleaning product) before and
after each use.
5. Use of indoor areas (e.g., weight rooms, locker rooms, and showers) should be
staggered so that players have the ability to socially distance while using the
facilities. Covered Persons should minimize the time spent in the locker room. To
the extent applicable, use of the locker room shall be in accordance with the
locker room section of the Match Day Protocols below (Section VII.B).
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6. As practicable, any doors, gates, etc. that must be passed through should be left
open during the arrival and departure windows to minimize exposure via door
handles.
7. Players should be provided hand sanitizer and disinfectant easily available and
accessible at the facilities to clean hands and equipment. Players should sanitize
their hands upon arrival to the fields and wash hands for at least 20 seconds upon
arrival to any indoor area.
8. Any food or drink provided to the player must be in accordance with one of the
following options:
a. Food may be provided in a pre-packaged disposable container, not for

re-use (e.g., water bottles). It should be set aside in advance for the
player to pick up without him having to come into contact with
anyone. Grab-and-Go remains the preferred option.
b. Team meals may also be provided, provided that the same standards as
when the team is on the road are complied with (see Section IX.C.2.d).
9. Where practicable, players should bring their own equipment. Any equipment
provided by the team should be either one time use or disinfected by the team
prior to each use and then provided to players on a grab and use basis during the
training session. E.g., no shared pennies, water bottles should be one time use;
balls to be disinfected.
C. Treatment Protocols
1. Except as necessary for hands-on treatment, treatment must be structured so that

all participants can socially distance from all others from arrival to departure.
Training tables must be at least six feet apart from each other
2. Within a given specialty, the same staff should continue to work with the same
player (i.e., no cross-over).
3. The treatment room and any surface that could be touched from the parking lot to
the treatment room must be disinfected prior to and after each session.
4. Equipment should be disinfected or discarded before and after each session.
5. Any doors that must be passed through should be left open during the arrival and
departure windows to minimize exposure via door handles.
6. Each person arriving in the treatment room should wash their hands for at least 20
seconds.
7. Staff should utilize appropriate PPE during treatment.
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D. Facility Access
1. Teams must prevent non-Covered Persons from being present at the fields or in
any area where Covered Persons may go during training or treatment (e.g., it is
not permissible to have a youth team in the same part of the facility at the same
time the USL team is training).
2. If non-Covered Persons are present at the facility at different times, the team must
have assurances that any areas of the facility where Covered Persons will go will
be disinfected before team personnel arrive.
E. Weight Room Protocols.
1. Covered Persons will only be present in the weight room along with others from
their training group. For clarification, while shared performance centers/weight
room facilities are permitted, when Covered Persons are using such facilities, the
space being used must be exclusive to Covered Persons during such period of
time. By way of example, if the Covered Persons are occupying a free-weight
section of the facility, that free-weight area cannot concurrently be accessed by
other individuals at the facility.
2. Covered Persons must socially distance while in the weight room. Each Team
must establish a maximum capacity for its weight room which allows for social
distancing. Use of the weight room should be staggered to ensure that players
have the ability to socially distance.
3. Arrival and departure must be scheduled so that Covered Persons can socially
distance from each other on their way in and out, and each individual must record
his or her entrance/exit into the weight room on a log to facilitate contact tracing.
4. If weight training requires the use of a partner, the partner should be the person’s
Roommate (if available). If not, the partner should (to the extent reasonable
possible) be paired with the same individual throughout the season. See Section
II.D (“Consistent Partners – Limiting Close Contacts”).
5. Consistent with other training situations, players and staff should wear masks
except when actively training, except that players who have just completed active
training may have a “cool down” period before they put on a mask, provided that
they are socially distanced.
6. Disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer shall be present throughout the weight
room. Players should wipe down each piece of equipment before and after each
use and sanitize hands upon arrival and frequently.
7. The weight room shall be disinfected before and after each group’s use.
8. Players reporting to the weight room should come wearing any clothes,
equipment, towels, etc. they will need, and they will be responsible for bringing
Page 12 of 50
these items home with them for disinfection. Teams may provide single use items
(e.g., water bottles) and training monitors, provided that training monitors must be
thoroughly disinfected before and after every use. Water fountains may not be
used.
9. Doors, windows, etc. should remain open in an effort to minimize touch and
maximize ventilation.
10. Teams could consider using HEPA filtration units to assist with ventilation.
11. Teams could consider moving certain aspects of their weight room outdoors if
space allows.
12. At the end of training, players should leave promptly, showering at home and not
at any club facility.
F. Cleaning Protocols.
1. In addition to the other cleaning protocols outlined in this document, teams must
develop a sanitation plan, which, at a minimum, complies with applicable Health
Authority Guidance regarding cleaning.
2. Teams should consider increasing cleaning frequency, utilizing a dedicated staff

to perform cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitization at regular intervals. This staff
should be trained and provided the equipment necessary (such as cleaning
supplies and PPE) to conduct cleaning services in accordance with applicable
Health Authority Guidance.
Page 13 of 50
VI. Visiting Team Training Prior to Match Day
A. Protocols for Visiting Team Training.
As set forth in the Operations Manual, the visiting team may train in the opposing market
prior to a match. Any visiting team training must take place at the home team’s facilities in
order to ensure that the Protocols set forth in this Section VI are followed.
B. Walk-Throughs.
Traditional team (day before) walk-throughs should be suspended, except that the Health
Officer of the visiting team may have a pre-match walk through to familiarize himself/herself
with the processes and procedures that the team will be following.
C. Requesting Use of Training Facility.
The visiting team must request to utilize the home team’s training facility at least
fourteen days prior to the match. Between the two teams, a mutually agreed upon training time
will be designated. Training should be limited to the training facility; training in the stadium is
not permitted unless it is the only available option.
D. Maintaining Social Distance.
1. To the extent possible, and except as necessary for active training, the away
team’s players and staff should maintain social distancing on the way to the
training facility and throughout the day (including on the bus). The most direct
path from the team’s bus to the training field must be identified and
communicated to the visiting team.
2. From the time they leave their hotel rooms for training until the time they return,
the away team’s players and staff should wear masks except when actively
training, except that players who have just completed active training may have a
“cool down” period before they put on a mask, provided they are socially
distanced.
3. Any surfaces (e.g., benches; door handles) which players may touch during
training or on their way to and from training must be disinfected prior to and after
the training session.
4. As practicable, any doors, gates, etc. that must be passed through should be left
handles.
5. Players should be provided hand sanitizer and disinfectant easily available and
accessible at the facilities to clean hands and equipment. Players should sanitize
their hands upon arrival and regularly throughout the session.
Page 14 of 50
6. Any food or drink provided to the player should be in a pre-packaged disposable

container, not for re-use (e.g., water bottles). It should be set aside in advance for
the player to pick up without him having to come into contact with anyone.
7. Where practicable, players should bring their own equipment. Any equipment
provided by the away team should be either one time use (e.g., water bottles) or
disinfected by the team prior to each use (e.g., soccer balls, GPS monitors) and
then provided to players on a grab and use basis during the training session.
8. Non-essential personnel and spectators may not be present at the fields or

otherwise in any part of the facility that the away team will use during the
designated training slot Spectators may not be present.
9. Outside of restrooms, the away team is not permitted to utilize any of the home
team’s indoor facilities such as the weight room, locker room, cafeteria, training
room, etc. If a player does utilize the restroom, they must practice proper hand
hygiene and wash with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
10. Following the training session and after arriving at the hotel, players must change
into clean clothes. Teams should ensure that contact points are limited between
the dirty clothes and the equipment manager, either by ensuring (a) that the
equipment manager is wearing appropriate PPE or (b) that training gear is placed
directly into a laundry bag and placed in a laundry cart in the hotel hallway.
E. Home Team Obligations.
1. The visiting team may bring its own balls and, if it does, has the responsibility to
keep them sanitized. If this is not practicable (e.g., if the visiting team is flying),
the home team is required to provide to the visiting team a minimum of twelve
pre-sanitized soccer balls to utilize during their training session. Although the
home team is responsible for sanitizing the balls initially, the visiting team is
responsible for keeping the balls sanitized until they are returned to the home
team.
2. If the home team provides balls, the visiting team is required to keep them for the
duration of its time in the market, utilizing them for any other training sessions as
well as match day warm-up purposes.
3. Following any usage on matchday, the visiting team must sanitize the soccer balls
and place them back into the ball bag before returning them to the home team.
4. The home team is required to provide the visiting team with no fewer than 48
single-use water bottles at a minimum size of 16.9 oz and 24 single-use
electrolyte beverage bottles at a minimum size of 16.9 oz. It is recommended that
teams provide a mechanism for recycling given the increase in single-use plastic.
5. The visiting team is responsible for bringing its own medical equipment (tape,
etc.), except that the home team must provide the AED defibrillator device.
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6. The visiting team is responsible for bringing its own training gear (cones, bibs,
etc.). The visiting team is also responsible for disinfecting such gear prior to use.
7. The home team is responsible for providing disinfectant and hand sanitizer for the
visiting team at easily-accessible locations.
8. The home team must ensure that the facility and any surfaces which the away
team may encounter during training are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior
to the away team’s arrival and following their departure.
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VII. Media/Broadcast
A. Appearances.
Appearances in which players or other Covered Persons would be in contact with the
general public (or other persons who are not Covered Persons) are generally prohibited for the
2021 season.
B. Promotional Video Shoots/Interviews.
1. Promotional video shoots and interviews should take place in a controlled

environment; no members of the general public may have access to the site where
such activities are taking place (the “Site”).
2. The number of people at the Site should be minimized.
3. With the exception of Roommates, Covered Persons should not come to the Site
together (e.g., by carpooling). Covered Persons should maintain social
distancing, as set forth in the introduction. However, if Covered Persons must
ride together (due to no other practical alternatives), they should distance from
each other to the greatest extent possible, wear masks throughout the trip, and
ensure adequate air circulation within the vehicle.
4. All persons must socially distance (i.e., remain at least six feet apart from each
other) while at the Site. This could be accomplished through, e.g., a boom mike
or other mechanism.
5. All persons at the Site should wear masks unless they are on camera.
6. All persons at the Site must wash or sanitize their hands upon arrival and
frequently throughout the process. Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes should
be available.
7. The Site (including any surfaces which may be touched, e.g., door handles)
should be cleaned/disinfected before and after use.
8. Equipment should be disinfected before and after each use.
9. The screening process set forth in Section IV must be followed not only for
Covered Persons but also for any other person who will be present at the Site.
C. Broadcast.
At no point may broadcast personnel come within six feet of the technical area or any
area where Covered Persons may be. For broadcast personnel who will be at field level, teams
must mark the area in which broadcast personnel may stand, and teams should make clear to
Covered Persons that they may not come within six feet of such area.
Page 17 of 50
D. Press Box.
1. Seating in the press box must be at least six feet apart. Teams should consider
minimizing the number of individuals allowed in the press box to achieve this
standard.
2. Any buffet style or self-serve drink options in the press box should be replaced
with “grab and go” options.
3. Headsets, microphones, etc., may not be shared between individuals; and
4. Teams should consider propping open press box doors to minimize hand contact.
5. No Covered Persons may enter the press box.
E. Media Access.
1. It is recommended that teams explore virtual credentialing through a PDF or QR

code to eliminate physical pick up.
2. Subject to team discretion and Health Authority Guidance, team media and
credentialed outside media may maintain a presence on the sidelines, but only if
(a) they are limited to a designated area which no Covered Person will come
within six feet of and (b) they are reasonably able to socially distance from other
individuals. It is the responsibility of each team to establish a process to ensure
that no Covered Person will come within six feet of any member of the media.
3. In no circumstances may media (or any non-Covered Person) have a presence in

the locker room.
Page 18 of 50
VIII. Match Day Protocols
A. Arrival to Venue
1. Team arrivals to the venue must be completely separate, with no overlap or cross-
intersection. The only exception to this policy is if teams enter and access their
locker-rooms through completely different ingress points. It is required to space
out the arrival times of the referees, home team, and visiting team.
2. Even within each team, social distancing should be observed to the extent
practicable, except on the field during match play. Covered Persons on the away
team should socially distance on the bus on the way to the match. Except for
Roommates, Covered Persons on the home team should not arrive at the match
together. However, if Covered Persons must ride together (due to no other
within the vehicle.
3. From the time they leave their residence/hotel for the match until the time they
return, where practicable, players and staff should wear masks except when
actively playing in the match (e.g., in team meetings, in the locker room, on the
sidelines). This is particularly important in any situation where social distancing
is not observed.
a. Exception: Players who have just come off the field may have a “cool-
down” period before they put a mask back on (which period should
generally not exceed 5 minutes), provided they are socially distanced.
All players must be re-masked before going inside (whether for
halftime or pre-/post-game) and, if a player needs additional time to
cool down prior to re-masking and entering the facilities, that player
must remain outside while he cools down.
4. Any surfaces (e.g., benches; door handles) which players or staff may touch on
match day must be disinfected immediately prior to the match. If there are indoor
areas where multiple players are likely to touch the same surface, surfaces should
be disinfected (e.g., by wiping down with an approved cleaning product) before
and after each use.
5. As practicable, any doors, gates, etc. that must be passed through must be left
handles.
6. Each team should be provided with hand sanitizer and disinfectant that is located
in easily accessible areas (e.g., placed periodically throughout the back of house
areas and, specifically, outside of the locker room). Players and staff should
disinfect their hands upon arrival and as frequently as practicable.
Page 19 of 50
B. Locker Rooms
1. Teams should arrive to the locker rooms no earlier than thirty minutes prior to
warmups, in an effort to restrict the time spent in a confined space. Home and
visiting team entrances to the locker rooms should be staggered to minimize
proximity and adhere to the social distancing requirement. Entrance times will be
communicated via the gameday timeline.
2. When possible, players should arrive to the venue in their warmup gear to
minimize the time needed in the locker room.
3. Doors to the locker rooms must be left open to minimize exposure.
4. Players and staff should adhere to the six foot social distancing requirement from
the time they enter the locker room until the time they leave (including during
team meetings, to the extent practicable). If additional locker room space is
available adjacent to the traditional team and referee locker rooms, that spaced
should also be utilized. Alternatively, use of the locker rooms should be
staggered so that players have the ability to socially distance while using the
facilities.
5. Players and staff must wear masks when in the locker room.
6. All locker rooms (including restrooms) must be fully disinfected and sanitized
prior to team/referee arrivals on match day and following departure. From the
time cleaning is completed until the time the team/referees depart, no persons who
are not in the Testing Group may be present in the locker rooms.
7. If shower facilities are used, they must be used in accordance with social
distancing guidelines.
8. Towels provided must be clean and, once used, towels should be placed directly
into a laundry bin.
9. Ice baths, hot tubs, saunas, and communal fixtures such as television remotes,
game tables, video games, coffee machines, etc. may not be used in the locker
room. If teams wish to use ice baths, they must: (a) only be used by one
individual at a time; (b) be thoroughly disinfected before and after each use; and
(c) set up in a manner allowing for social distancing (e.g., at least 6 feet between
each). It is preferable that any ice baths are only used outside.
10. Any individual who is scooping ice from a shared ice machine must use
disposable, single-use gloves or, alternatively clean the handle of the ice scooper
prior to and after each use. Ice should be primarily used for injury treatment, as
cold water is available through single use bottles.
11. If possible, regular treatments (e.g., taping) should take place at the hotel or in the
training room. If this is not possible, training tables may only be used in the
Page 20 of 50
locker room if social distancing requirements continue to be satisfied. If this is

not possible, an alternative space must be identified for the training table.
Further, training tables must only be used pursuant to the following Protocols:
a. Prior to treating a player, the trainer and player must disinfect their
hands (using hand sanitizer or by washing hands with warm water and
soap for at least 20 seconds) and any equipment that will be used
during the treatment session (including the training table).
b. The player and trainer must both wear a mask during treatment.
c. A clean towel must be utilized as a barrier on the table.
d. Following treatment, the trainer and the player must again disinfect
their hands (using hand sanitizer or by washing hands with warm
water and soap for at least 20 seconds) and any equipment that was
used during the training session (including the training table).
12. Any food provided in the locker room should be in a pre-packaged disposable
container, not for re-use. It should be set aside in advance for the player to pick up
without him having to come into contact with anyone.
13. Players and/or staff should not eat in the locker room but rather should take meals
back to their hotel/residence.
14. Any drink provided in the locker room should be either in a single-use bottle or in
a personalized water bottle if it is clearly marked and sanitized after each use.
Coolers can be used for purposes of efficiency, but should only be used for the
purpose of refilling the individual bottles.
a. Visiting Team Locker Room Minimums:
i. 72 bottles of 16.9 oz water
ii. 48 bottles of 16.9 oz electrolyte drink
b. Referee Locker Room Minimums:
i. 10 bottles of 16.9 oz water
ii. 10 Bottles of 16.9 oz electrolyte drink
15. Following the match, players and team staff must stagger their locker room exits
to comply with social distancing requirements. The most direct path from the
locker room to the transportation option must be identified and communicated
before the match.
Page 21 of 50
a. As practicable, all doors, gates, etc. must be propped open for the
players.
b. Masks must be worn during stadium egress.
C. Pregame/Warmups
1. When exiting the locker room for warmups, players and staff should exit at
staggered times to comply with social distancing requirements. Depending on
field entrance location, the team that needs to go to the far side of the field would
enter first and exit last. If possible, teams can enter the field simultaneously if
there are tunnels on opposite ends of the field.
2. Warm up balls provided to both teams must be fully disinfected prior to usage.
Following warmups, teams must place all balls directly in their respective bags.
3. Pregame meeting/roster exchange must take place under the following

parameters:
a. Only the team administrator from each team and the center referee are
needed;
b. All parties must wear masks at the meeting; and
c. The coin toss will take place at the pregame meeting. This allows the
on-field designations to be determined prior to both teams taking the
field.
4. When exiting the field from warmups, depending on the field tunnel location, the
team closest will exit first and the team furthest will exit last. Upon the
conclusion of warmups, social distancing should resume. If possible, teams can
exit the field simultaneously if there are tunnels on opposite ends of the field.
5. Laundry baskets should be available for teams to dispose directly of warm up

uniforms to limit contact with the equipment manager.
D. Procession
1. When exiting the locker room for the match, players and staff should exit at
staggered times to comply with social distancing requirements. Exact timing will
be communicated via the gameday timeline.
2. Players should wear masks until they are lined up for the procession, and Teams
must have a bin available for disposable masks as the players enter onto the pitch.
3. For consistency purposes, teams will exit in the following order:
a. Referees first
Page 22 of 50
b. The team needing to go to the far side of the field second (including
reserves and technical area staff)
c. The team needing to go to the near side of the field last (including
reserves and technical area staff)
4. Upon entering the field, the staff and reserves will walk directly to the technical
area while the starting players and referees will take their place on the field.
a. Player escorts are not permitted.
b. Teams will observe the National Anthem from these locations.
5. There will be no handshakes prior to kickoff.
E. In-Game Operations
1. Only essential staff are permitted to be field level during the match.
2. All persons at field level not actively playing in the match must wear masks,
except that players who have just come off the field may have a “cool down”
period before they put on a mask, provided they are socially distanced.
3. So long as he or she is at least six feet from any other person, during active game
play, the head coach of each team may refrain from wearing a mask for
communications purposes. The head coach should, however, have a mask on his
or her person to wear in the event he or she must approach within six feet of
anyone.
4. Players and staff must socially distance from each other in the technical area:
a. If possible, the team should extend the seating (supplemental benches)

and technical areas to accomplish this measure.
b. If the match is played without fans, stadium seating can be utilized if

immediately adjacent and accessible to the technical area.
5. Hand sanitizing stations must be placed in both technical areas. Players should
sanitize their hands following their exit from the field of play or prior to entering
the field of play during substitutions.
6. Following the first half and conclusion of the match, the parties must exit the field
in a staggered form, ensuring social distancing in the tunnel or back-of-house
areas.
7. Any jersey removed must be placed immediately and directly into a laundry
basket in an effort to minimize contact with the equipment manager.
Page 23 of 50
8. Match balls must be properly sanitized and disinfected prior to the match.
During the match, balls must be stationed around the field, at least 1 yard from the
touchlines, pursuant to the diagram below. Ball retrieval duties may be performed
by non-Covered Persons provided that they wear masks and gloves and do not
come within six feet of any Covered Person. In general, ball retrievers should not
be stationed on the same side of the field as the technical area. Except where such
would interfere with the flow of the match, ball retrievers should disinfect balls
prior to putting them back into play.
Key
X – Ball
9. In-game warm up areas must be positioned sufficiently remote from fans. If the
warmup area is proximate to the stands, those rows must be closed to ensure
distancing between the fans and the players.
10. When a substitute enters the match, he must place his bib directly into a laundry
bag. Cleaned and sanitized bibs must be available in a separate bag for players to
use that have come off the field of play.
11. The fourth officials’ or sideline table is limited to two seated individuals, seated at
either end of the table.
12. Ejected players and staff are still to be escorted off the field by a security staff
member. All else being equal, a 6 foot distance should be kept between the
security guard and the ejected individual. Security guards must wear masks.
13. Following the first half and final whistle, referees are still to be escorted off the
field by a security staff member (who shall wear a mask). All else being equal,
the security staff member should keep six feet of distance between himself and
the referees.
14. There will be higher penalties from the League for actions such as approaching
referees, mass confrontation of referees, and other similar actions.
15. Similarly, after the match, Covered Persons should immediately put on masks,
should not exchange jerseys, and should limit the interactions amongst
themselves.
Page 24 of 50
16. In the technical area, the home team is required to provide the visiting team with
no fewer than 72 single-use water bottles at a minimum size of 16.9 oz and 48
single-use electrolyte beverage bottles at a minimum size of 16.9 oz. It is
recommended that teams provide a mechanism for recycling given the increase in
single-use plastic.
F. Scrimmage Protocols.
1. Approval. Each team may schedule scrimmages throughout the 2021 season,
subject to approval by the League in each instance. Approval will be granted only
under the following conditions.
a. Any person participating in the scrimmage or in Close Contact with

players during the scrimmage must be subject to a testing, quarantine,
and isolation regime at least as rigorous as the testing, quarantine, and
isolation regime set forth in Section IX. Absent unique circumstances,
the League will approve scrimmages against teams in the USL
Championship, USL League One, and Major League Soccer, each of
which are already subject to at least as rigorous a regime. However, if
a Team desires to scrimmage a team outside of those three leagues, the
League may require additional information to be submitted for
approval and may condition its approval upon the opponent complying
with certain additional health and safety protocols. Applications are
available through the TeamWorks platform.
b. Teams wishing to schedule scrimmages during the pre-season must

test Covered Persons on a weekly basis (as if they were in the regular
season) as opposed to on a bi-weekly basis (which would otherwise be
allowed during the pre-season).
c. Scrimmages should be conducted in accordance with the Match Day

Protocols set forth in this Section VII to the extent they are applicable.
2. Referees. For clarification, referees to be used during pre-season or for other

exhibitions are not assigned by PRO, but Teams will continue to use National
Assignors. Testing for referees is at the discretion/expense of the Team; however,
if the referee has not been tested prior to the match, he or she must remain outside
during the entirety of his/her performance and, accordingly, is not permitted
within any indoor portions of the stadium (including during pre-game, half-time,
and post-game).
Page 25 of 50
IX. Travel
A. Bus Travel
1. General; Recording. For any bus travel, Teams must record the seat to be used
by each Covered Person throughout any given trip. Covered Persons must
maintain their seats throughout the entirety of the trip (i.e., they can’t be switching
seats, even if social distancing is maintained). This requirement is to ensure that
the appropriate contact tracing may be performed, and that such Covered Persons
can be quarantined or subject to additional testing as necessary.
2. Travel Between Markets. Ground (bus) transportation is mandatory for any trips
of 400 miles or less. Exceptions may be made only in extraordinary cases with
the approval of the League and the USLPA. Requests must be made to the
League at least seven (7) days in advance. Members of the Traveling Party shall
sit at least six feet apart, except that Roommates may sit together on the bus.
Generally, this will mean that there will be only one person or group of
Roommates per row, alternating sides by row. See Exhibit VIII.A.1. If a team can
fit members of the Traveling Party on one bus while still maintaining social
distancing, it may do this after applying to the League. The application shall
include a map of where each player will sit on the bus. However, until the League
approves an exception, teams are required to utilize two buses. Members of the
Traveling Party must wear masks while on and around the bus (e.g., while
getting their luggage).
3. Local, Out-Of-Market Travel. For local, out-of-market travel (e.g., traveling

between the airport and the hotel or the hotel and the stadium), the visiting team
may provide only one 50+ person bus if it chooses (vans are not permitted). The
same buses (and drivers) must be used throughout the team’s stay. Members of
the Traveling Party must wear masks while on and around the bus (e.g.,
while getting their luggage).
4. Guidance for Bus Drivers and Bus Companies. The following guidance is
applicable to bus companies/bus drivers. When booking buses, STM will
incorporate these requirements into the applicable bus contracts. If teams notice
that a bus company has deviated from these protocols, they should contact the
League or STM.
a. The bus should be cleaned and sanitized before and after every trip,
including (if applicable) any trips between the hotel and the stadium
on the same day.
b. Prior to boarding, drivers should be subject to temperature/symptom

and exposure screening. If the driver has a temperature or symptoms,
or has been exposed to COVID-19, they should not board the bus, and
the bus company should provide another driver.
Page 26 of 50
c. Drivers should wear masks while on the bus.
d. Drivers should not load or unload luggage or equipment on or off the

bus.
e. Teams should consider having the bus take short breaks of 10-15
minutes approximately every two hours, during which time the doors
(and windows, if available) should remain open to ensure adequate air
circulation.
f. To the extent drivers park on-site and stay during the game, drivers
must follow strict social distancing guidelines, adhere to the team’s
approved cleaning and hygiene protocols, remain in private areas
without interacting with other people, and clean and sanitize the bus
prior to re-accepting the Traveling Party for the return trip.
B. Air Travel
1. For any air travel, Teams must record the seat to be used by each Covered
Person throughout any given flight. Covered Persons must maintain their seats
throughout the entirety of the flight (i.e., they can’t be switching seats, even if
social distancing is maintained). This requirement is to ensure that the
appropriate contact tracing may be performed, and that such Covered Persons can
be quarantined or subject to additional testing as necessary.
2. With the exception of Roommates, Covered Persons should not travel to the
airport together (i.e., they must maintain social distancing, as set forth in the
introduction). However, if Covered Persons must ride together (due to no other
within the vehicle. Bus travel should be in accordance with the guidelines in
Section VIII.A above.
3. Members of the Traveling Party must wear masks from the time they exit their
residence until the time they arrive at their hotel (unless alone or only with
Roommates). During such period, members of the Traveling Party must use their
best efforts to practice social distancing (including with respect to other members
of the Traveling Party), conduct frequent hand-washing and otherwise use best
efforts to remain sanitized. Teams shall provide each member of the Traveling
Party with an individualized bottle of hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes prior
to air travel.
4. All flights should be configured to provide as many empty seats or rows, and free
space between members of the Traveling Party (and similarly, between members
of the Traveling Party and other passengers) as possible, with the understanding
that flight capacity may vary, and this may not be practicable.
Page 27 of 50
5. Members of the Traveling Party shall not avail themselves of any food or drink
options on the airplane. At the airport, members of the Traveling Party may only
purchase individually wrapped “grab and go” food and drink.
C. Hotels.
1. Requirements for Home Teams. Home teams may use previously-contracted

hotels, provided that such hotels utilize appropriate COVID-19 sanitation and
cleaning procedures and meet the following minimum requirements.
2. Guidance for Hotels. The following guidance is applicable to hotels. When

booking hotels, STM will incorporate these requirements into the applicable
contracts. If teams notice that a hotel has deviated from these protocols, they
should contact the League or STM.
a. Where possible, hotels should reserve a sufficient number of rooms for

members of the Traveling Party on lower floors such that stairs, and
not elevators, can be used for leaving and returning to rooms.
Rooming blocks should ensure that the Traveling Party is isolated in
the hotel, which should not book other visitors on the same floors that
are reserved for the team.
b. Hotel staff must refrain from cleaning the interior of hotel rooms
assigned to members of the Traveling Party for the duration of the
Traveling Party’s stay. Rooms must be stocked with extra towels and
toiletries prior to arrival.
c. Any meeting room which the team will use to have meals or for other
purposes while in the hotel (“Sanitized Room”) (including its tables,
chairs, walls and carpet) must be fully disinfected prior to the team’s
arrival and daily while onsite.
d. Hotels should provide a Sanitized Room in a private location of the

hotel (e.g., conference room, lounge, etc.) for use by members of the
Traveling Party. Kitchen staff must wear full PPE during any meal
preparation. Meals are preferably either plated or individually
packaged (grab-and-go). If the meal is served “buffet-style”, hotel
staff in full PPE shall serve the food to members of the Traveling Party
to limit the number of hands touching the food. Any plates or
silverware to be used must either be individually set at tables by hotel
staff or distributed directly to members of the Traveling Party (as
opposed to each member taking his or her plate or silverware out of a
stack). Traveling Party members must wash their hands before and
after each meal.
e. Hotel staff must wear masks and ensure that the key cards (and the
equipment used to create the key cards) are disinfected prior to
Page 28 of 50
issuance. Hotels shall also ensure that appropriate sanitation

procedures are followed with regards to who touches key cards/key
packets prior to being picked up by a Traveling Party member. All
paperwork must be shared electronically, and no printed materials may
be given to members of the Traveling Party. No members of the
Traveling Party should visit the front desk upon departure, and check-
out procedures (including key returns and the payment of incidentals)
should be handled remotely.
f. Hotels must ensure that all staff who interact with the Traveling Party
wear appropriate PPE during such interactions. Hotels must agree that
touchpoints in areas through which the Traveling Party passes will be
cleaned with disinfectant several times per day.
3. Opt-Outs. The provisions of the Operations Manual allowing teams the right to
choose alternate hotel arrangements in two markets throughout the regular season
and post-season will not apply during the 2021 season.
D. Requirements for Members of the Traveling Party.
1. Except for Roommates, who may share a room, all members of the Traveling
Party must have their own room. Members of the Traveling Party may not make
separate public or private housing arrangements while on the road.
2. Except for Roommates, to the extent members of the Traveling Party eat together
in the hotel, they should sit with at least six feet of space between them (e.g., all
in a row facing the same direction (not each other) with spaces between them).
3. Covered Persons should avoid leaving the hotel for meals (even takeout) if
reasonably possible. If a Covered Person does choose to exit the hotel for a meal,
(a) unless the food is of the grab-and-go variety, it must have been ordered in
advance (and, in either situation, the Covered Person should simply be picking it
up and returning immediately to the hotel); (b) the Covered Person must check-
out with the Team admin upon departure; and (c) the Covered Person must check-
in within the Team admin upon return. Any divergence from the foregoing is
prohibited.
4. Members of the Traveling Party are not permitted in public areas of the hotel,
except as reasonably necessary to travel to a Sanitized Room or their respective
hotel rooms. While in elevators and public areas, members of the Traveling Party
must wear masks at all times.
5. The Traveling Party may not utilize the fitness center, pool, sauna or other shared
hotel facility during their stay at a hotel.
Page 29 of 50
X. Monitoring, Testing, Quarantine, and Isolation
A. Testing Set-Up.
Once a testing partner is established, teams will need to be set up to comply with
instructions from that testing partner regarding test administration. These may include (without
limitation): (i) regulations around the testing sites; (ii) personnel to administer the test; (iii) PPE;
and (iv) shipping.
B. Quarantine/Isolation Set-Up.
Each team needs to develop a plan for how they would isolate/quarantine a person for
whom isolation or quarantine is indicated while that person is in the team’s market – e.g., by
working with a hotel or apartment partner, depending on the circumstances. This plan must
account for what would happen if personnel from another team need to be quarantined or
isolated while on the road in the team’s home market. Quarantine/Isolation Set-Up plans must
be submitted to the League prior to the start of the season. Any direct, out-of-pocket costs
associated with quarantining/isolating a Covered Person pursuant to such a plan shall be the
responsibility of the Covered Person’s team. If the visiting team is able to provide a plan for the
Covered Person to return to their Home Market without unnecessarily exposing other individuals
to the virus, such plans may be provided to the League Office and will be considered on a case-
by-case basis. 4
C. Treatment Set-Up.
Each team needs to develop a plan for obtaining immediate treatment (if necessary) for a
person in need while in the team’s market – e.g., by working with a medical provider. This plan
must account for what would happen if personnel from another team need immediate treatment
while on the road in the team’s home market. Treatment Set-Up plans must be submitted to the
League prior to the start of the season. Direct, out-of-pocket costs of treating a Covered Person
pursuant to such a plan shall be the responsibility of the Covered Person’s team. 5
D. Away Market Plan.
Each team needs to develop a plan for determining who would stay behind to handle the
day-to-day needs of a Covered Person who, because of quarantine or isolation, had to remain in
an away market after the departure of the rest of the team. These plans must be submitted to the
League prior to the start of the season. Costs are the responsibility of the Covered Person’s
team.
E. Testing
4
Reimbursement process between the home and visiting clubs is still to be determined.
5
Reimbursement process between the home and visiting clubs is still to be determined.
Page 30 of 50
1. PCR Tests.
a. For purposes of satisfying any testing requirements set forth in these

Protocols, the League testing provider or an approved local testing
provider must perform a PCR diagnostic test which has received FDA
approval (including through an Emergency Use Authorization). For
purposes of these Protocols, antigen tests are not an approved or
acceptable form of testing.
b. If a team is using a local testing provider to perform PCR tests during

the season, teams shall use good faith efforts to limit the use of the
nasopharyngeal test (i.e, the long nasal swab) whenever practicable.
For avoidance of doubt, however, this recommendation always
remains subject to applicable Health Authority Guidance and any
recommendations of the team physician or other health experts.
2. Testing: Re-Integration Period. Prior to his or her first team training or other
participation in team activities, each player and member of the coaching staff
must self-quarantine for a period of at least seven (7) days and must be tested, at
minimum, at the commencement and conclusion of this period. During this re-
integration period, the Covered Person may not participate in any team activities
other than outdoor 6 training (only once the Covered Person has received an initial
negative test). For avoidance of doubt, even in connection with outdoor training
during this period, the Covered Person is not permitted in the locker room or other
enclosed portions of the stadium. The Covered Person may only resume
participation in other team activities with other members of the team (including
travel, weight training, film sessions, etc.) once he or she has received negative
test results from both the first and second tests.
3. Testing: Pre-Season. Except as required for a Covered Person during his or her
“re-integration period,” as set forth in paragraph 2 above, the following testing
cadence applies throughout the pre-season:
a. Weekly testing for Teams in competition with outside parties (see

Section VIII.F for associated requirements).
b. Testing every other week for those Teams only conducting training
sessions (and not competing with outside parties).
4. Testing: Regular and Post-Season. Each team shall work with its testing provider
to ensure that testing results are returned for each Covered Person the day prior to
the away team commencing its travel to a match. By way of example, if the away
team is traveling on Friday for a Saturday match, both the home team and the
6
For clarification, “outdoor” training may include full-field training in a “bubble” or other similar structure, even if
technically not “outdoors”
Page 31 of 50
away team should receive their test results on Thursday. Furthermore, Covered
Persons must be tested no less than once every seven days (e.g., even if a Team
has a “bye” week, its Covered Persons must still be tested). Please note that,
although the general rule is as set forth above, the circumstances may require
more frequent testing.
5. Inconclusive Results. Any test which is returned with an “inconclusive” result

shall be treated in the same manner as if the test had not been taken and shall be
promptly retaken. By way of example, an “inconclusive” test result would not be
sufficient to permit a player to travel with his team to an away match.
6. Antibody Testing. Teams may request that players take antibody tests in addition
to PCR tests; however, due to certain EEOC guidance, Covered Persons may
decline to take the antibody test without repercussion. 7 There is no League
provider for antibody testing, so any testing must be sourced by the Teams.
7. Exceptions.
a. Unless otherwise advised by the team physician, teams are not

required to continue testing Covered Persons who tested positive for
the virus within the previous 90 days and have gone through the
process described in Section X.I.2. However, if a Covered Person
tests positive upon his or her first test upon arrival/return to the Team,
the Covered Person shall only be exempt for a period of thirty (30)
days unless he or she can establish that he or she tested negative less
than thirty days prior (at which point, the Covered Person could forego
testing for the full 90 days).
b. Unless otherwise advised by the team physician, teams are also not
required to continue testing Covered Persons who have tested positive
for the antibody within the previous 30 days, unless the antibody is the
result of the Covered Person having been vaccinated (in which case,
the Covered Person would be required to continue under the standard
testing regiment). This 30-day period may continue to be extended by
additional 30-day periods, provided that the Covered Person continues
to test positive for the antibody.
c. During the 90-day or 30-day periods identified in paragraph (a) or (b)

above, respectively, those Covered Persons may be removed from the
testing pool and any contact-tracing processes. However, once the
applicable period has expired (or the Covered Person tests negative for
the antibody, if applicable), he or she is then subject to the same
7
It is recommended that the team require any player who has tested positive for the antibody to also
undergo follow-up cardiopulmonary testing.
Page 32 of 50
testing and contact-tracing rules and regulations as any other Covered

Person.
8. Vaccinations.
a. Each Player has an obligation to use his best efforts to remain

medically and physically able to perform as a skilled soccer player in
the League. Accordingly, if (a) a vaccination for the virus is made
available to a Player through the coordination of the Club after the
execution of the Return-to-Play Agreement and (b) such Player
declines or refuses to accept such vaccination (absent exceptional
circumstances, to be mutually approved by the League and USLPA in
each instance):
i. The League shall provide the USLPA with notice (which may be
via email) of such an occurrence (the “Vaccination Notice”) and,
within five (5) days of the Vaccination Notice, the USLPA shall
contact Players on the Club to discuss the impact of such refusal or
declination; and
ii. The Club shall owe each such Player the same rights and
protections set forth in the Return-to-Play Protocols as if such
Player had been vaccinated—if such Player requests additional
accommodations in order to maintain a heightened degree of
protection, he shall be solely responsible for any costs associated
therewith; 8 and
iii. Such Player shall continue to adhere to any applicable Return-to-

Play Protocols, the guidance of local health authorities, and his
Club’s rules and policies enforcing the foregoing (including with
respect to self-quarantining, testing, masking, and other
obligations) which, for avoidance of doubt, may differentiate
between immunized, non-immunized, vaccinated, and
unvaccinated individuals—including increased fines for breaches
of the Return-to-Play Protocols by such unvaccinated Players (of
up to 25% of such Player’s salary during any given pay period));
and
8
By way of example, the Club could require the Player to share a hotel room with another player or to
travel on a bus which may not permit the Player to maintain social distance. If the Player desired not to
share a hotel room or travel on the bus, he would be responsible for the costs associated with such
separate travel and lodging.
Page 33 of 50
iv. Any out-of-pocket testing costs associated with such Player which
would not have been incurred had such Player not declined or
refused to accept such vaccination will be paid as set forth below:
A. Routine testing will be split equally between the Club

and such Player; provided, however, that such Player
shall not be responsible for any amounts in excess of
$20/test; and
B. Any additional testing required by the Return-to-Play

Protocols in order to facilitate such Player’s return to
team activities at the earliest possible date (regardless of
whether such Player was excluded due to a positive
diagnosis/test or to contact-tracing) shall be borne by
such Player; provided, however, that such Player shall
not be responsible for any amounts in excess of $75 in
connection with such return; and
C. Assessment of any testing costs to such Player shall

occur no earlier than the date on which all Players on his
Club who were offered the vaccination on the same date
are deemed “fully vaccinated”. For clarification, an
individual is only considered “fully vaccinated” after he
has had the requisite number of shots/doses and has
waited the applicable period of time following such
shots/doses for the vaccine to take full effect (currently,
a period of 14 days following the last shot/dose).
v. The Club (or League, if applicable) may exclude such Player from
certain team activities (including, by way of example, team travel,
team meals, etc.) due to his immunization status to the extent that
such Player’s inclusion in such activities could cause additional
costs or risks to the Club; and
vi. At the request of the League or his Club, such Player shall execute
a form of waiver and release which expressly (i) waives and
releases any and all claims, now known or hereafter known,
against the League Parties and their respective officers, directors,
managers, employees, agents, affiliates, successors, and assigns
(collectively, “Releasees”), on account of injury, illness, disability,
or death arising out of or attributable to the virus, whether arising
out of the ordinary negligence of a League Party or any Releasees
or otherwise and (ii) covenants not to make or bring any such
claim against a League Party or any other Releasee, and forever
releases and discharges the League Parties and all other Releasees
from liability under such claims.
Page 34 of 50
9. Explanation of Test Results.
The results of a Covered Person’s tests shall be shared with and explained to him or her
by the team physician. Results of any player tests must be kept in the player’s Medical File (as
defined below) and shared only in accordance with Section IX.F.2 below.
10. Mandatory Team Q&A With Covered Persons.
Teams (and preferably the team physician) must meet with Covered Persons to discuss
the testing process and answer applicable questions. Such meetings may occur in a group (via
web or other conference mechanism) or on a one-on-one basis.
11. Referees.
Referees for any League matches shall be tested on a schedule established in consultation
with the Professional Referees Organization. For referees used for pre-season and other
exhibition matches, please see Section VIII.F.2.
F. Additional Self-Quarantining Obligations.
1. Generally. If any Covered Person is identified as (a) feeling sick; (b)

experiencing the symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., a temperature); or (c) having had
Close Contact with any diagnosed or suspected case of COVID-19, they shall
immediately self-quarantine and consult with the team physician about next steps
(which may include one or more PCR tests on an expedited basis). Such
individuals should continue to self-quarantine in accordance with the guidelines
set forth in Sections X.I.2 and X.I.3, as applicable.
2. Exceptions. A Covered Person who comes into Close Contact with a diagnosed
or suspected case of COVID-19 is not required to comply with the additional self-
quarantining obligations of paragraph 1 above if the Covered Person meets one of
the following criteria:
a. The Covered Person has tested positive for the virus within the
previous 90 days (the same pre-requisite for being exempted from the
testing obligations in accordance with Sections X.E.7.a);
b. The Covered Person has tested positive for the antibody within the
previous 30 days (the same pre-requisite for being exempted from the
testing obligations in accordance with X.E.7.b above); or
c. The Covered Person has been fully vaccinated against the virus within
the previous 90 days and shows no symptoms. For clarification, an
individual is only considered “fully vaccinated” after he has had the
requisite number of shots/doses and has waited the applicable period
of time following such shots/doses for the vaccine to take full effect
(currently, a period of 14 days from the last shot/dose).
Page 35 of 50
In such circumstances that a Covered Person satisfies the conditions of any of

paragraphs X.F.2.a-c above, Teams may also treat those Covered Persons similar
to Roommates, in that they may room with another Covered Person at hotels and
otherwise come into Close Contact with other Covered Persons.
G. Medical File.
1. The team must keep any medical information collected by the team from or about
any Covered Persons in a confidential medical file, to be maintained, transmitted,
and disposed of in accordance with applicable law (“Medical File”).
2. Without limiting the rights or obligations of the League, teams, or players set
forth elsewhere in a Standard Player Agreement, each Covered Person may be
required to execute such documents as may be reasonably required to release
medical information reasonably related to COVID-19, in each instance solely to a
Permitted Recipient for a Permitted Purpose. For avoidance of doubt, such
medical information should not be disclosed, even to a Permitted Recipient,
unless such disclosure is for a Permitted Purpose. As used herein:
a. “Permitted Recipients” means (in each instance, solely for a Permitted

Purpose): (i) other individuals with whom the Covered Person was
likely to have come into contact; (ii) the medical staffs of other teams
who employ individuals with whom the Covered Person was likely to
have come into contact; (iii) the teams workers’ compensation
insurance carrier and to team personnel as needed to process workers’
compensation claims or otherwise assess or offer benefits; (iv) such
other entities or individuals (including, as applicable, League or team
personnel) as reasonably necessary or advisable to administer or
comply with the Protocols, provided such entities or individuals are
covered by confidentiality obligations; and (v) such other individuals
or entities as may be required by law.
b. “Permitted Purpose” means for the purpose of (i) informing those

individuals with whom the Covered Person was likely to have come
into contact to watch for potential signs of COVID-19 or (ii) ensuring
that other Covered Persons or staff do not unnecessarily or
unknowingly come into contact with the Covered Person or (iii)
obtaining workers compensation or other insurance coverage (or
reimbursement) for costs associated therewith; (iv) administering or
complying with the Protocols or (v) complying with applicable law.
3. The League or a team may require a player to provide them with information on
his health insurance (if any) in connection with any COVID-19 testing (or
potential COVID-19 testing). Players must cooperate with any reasonable
requests of the League or team to help ensure that any costs related to such testing
are covered (in whole or in part) by any such insurance coverage or by any other
programs which may be reasonably available to cover some or all of such costs.
Page 36 of 50
H. New Covered Persons.
1. In order to add an individual to the list of Covered Persons (a “New Covered

Person”), a team should immediately inform the League. Such individual should
immediately report to the testing site for a PCR test. New Covered Persons may
not participate in team activities until the results of such tests are reported and,
unless the new Covered Person was subject to similar or more stringent protocols
immediately prior to joining the Team, must also comply with the “re-integration
period” protocols described in Section X.E.2.
2. Any trialist or other person who the team wishes to enable to have Close Contact
with Covered Persons must be treated as a New Covered Persons. Teams should
be aware that this will result in a waiting period while the initial test results are
being processed. As more fully set forth in Section X.E.2, a trialist (or other new
Covered Person) may participate in outdoor training with the Team once they
have received an initial negative test, but may not participate in other team
activities (including travel, weight training, film sessions) until both the first and
second tests have been returned as negative (as required by the “re-integration
period” protocols set forth in Section X.E.2).
I. Quarantine/Isolation
1. Any Covered Person should generally self-quarantine, except to attend to team

activities and perform essential functions such as grocery shopping, medical
appointments, haircuts, personal hygiene appointments, physical therapy, drug
store visits, hiking and running (subject to social distancing), banking, take-out
food, auto repair, visits to governmental authority, day care and school visits.
When performing essential functions, Covered Persons should wear masks and
socially distance wherever practicable. As a reminder, all activities remain
subject to any restrictions imposed by applicable Health Authority Guidance.
2. Any Covered Person who has a diagnosed case of COVID-19 will isolate until
they recover. For avoidance of doubt, for players with Roommates, this also
includes the requirement that they immediately be separated into entirely separate
living quarters (i.e., separate apartments, not isolation in separate rooms within
the same apartment) 9. They will receive daily communication and remote care
from the team medical staff, including follow-up testing, where appropriate. If a
Covered Person is out of market when they test positive or are otherwise
diagnosed with COVID-19, they shall be taken care of in accordance with the
relevant Quarantine/Isolation Set-Up, Treatment Set-Up, and Away Market Plans
referenced above in Sections IX.B, IX.C, and IX.D, respectively. Such
9
Preferably, the individual with the diagnosed case would remain where he was, while the Roommate would be
relocated to separate quarters. The living quarters should also be thoroughly cleaned before the relocated individual
ultimately returns.
Page 37 of 50
individuals may return to team facilities or interact with other Covered Persons
only once the following criteria have been satisfied:
a. ten (10) days have passed since the positive test;
b. they are completely asymptomatic and have been so for at least three
days; and
c. they have been cleared in writing to return to work by the team

physician.
For the avoidance of doubt, prior to clearing an individual to return to work, the
team physician may determine it is advisable to perform additional PCR tests on
an expedited basis or extend the isolation period.
Even after having been cleared, the individual should be especially cognizant of
wearing a mask at all times (including while outside of team facilities), except
while on the field.
3. Covered Persons who have had Close Contact with a person with a diagnosed or
suspected case of COVID-19 shall immediately self-quarantine and consult with
the team physician, who may order one or more PCR tests on an expedited basis.
For avoidance of doubt, this includes the immediate isolation from their
Roommates (if any). Roommates are inherently deemed to have been in Close
Contact with one another.
a. Except as set forth in Section X.I.3.b, such individuals must self-

quarantine until: (i) after waiting 72 hours after the close contact
occurred, they have tested negative for COVID-19; (ii) if a second
PCR test is ordered by the team physician, they have tested negative
again; (iii) they are completely asymptomatic and have been so for at
least three days; and (iv) they have been cleared to return to work by
the team physician (who shall issues such clearance through a signed
document). For the avoidance of doubt, prior to clearing an individual
to return to work, the team physician may determine it is advisable to
perform additional PCR tests on an expedited basis or extend the
quarantine period.
b. Roommates of individuals with a diagnosed case of COVID-19 must

self-quarantine until: (i) after waiting 72 hours after the Close Contact
occurred, they have tested negative for COVID-19; (ii) after waiting a
subsequent 48 hours after the first test is taken, they have again tested
negative for COVID-19; (iii) they are completely asymptomatic and
have been so for at least three days; and (iv) they have been cleared to
return to work by the team physician (who shall issue such clearance
through a signed document). At least one of the tests referenced in (i)
and (ii) above must have had the sample collected via a
Page 38 of 50
nasopharyngeal swab by a health care provider with experience

collecting such samples. For the avoidance of doubt, prior to clearing
an individual to return to team activities, the team physician may
determine it is advisable to perform additional PCR tests on an
expedited basis or extend the quarantine period.
Even after having been cleared, the individual should be especially cognizant of
wearing a mask at all times (including while outside of team facilities), except
while on the field.
4. For any person experiencing symptoms, the team physician will determine
whether (a) a test is warranted; (b) a period of quarantine is warranted; or (c)
neither is warranted. The team physician will also determine whether additional
protections (e.g., additional PPE) are warranted.
5. Any Covered Person with symptoms (or who has been in Close Contact with a
diagnosed case) must self-quarantine until the results of the test are returned. If
the symptomatic individual has a Roommate, the Roommate must also self-
quarantine. Results should be returned within 72 hours.
6. Covered Persons shall, in addition to the foregoing, comply with any quarantine
or isolation periods (or other related orders) from health authorities, or that may
be applicable under applicable Health Authority Guidance.
J. Regular Reporting Protocol
Teams must complete those reporting forms required by the League from time to time.
As of the current version of these Protocols, Teams are required to complete the League-required
reporting form. This form must be submitted in advance of each match in accordance with the
instructions provided to each Team’s Health Officer(s).
K. Positive Case Protocol
In the event of a diagnosed case of COVID-19, in coordination with local health officials
(where applicable), a team must:
1. Follow the Quarantine/Isolation Protocols set forth in Sections IX.H.2 above,

which requires (in part) that such Covered Persons immediately cease any further
interaction with any other Covered Persons.
2. Immediately review the logs required by Section III.E to identify any other
Covered Persons which have had Close Contact within the preceding 7 days. For
such Covered Persons (inherently including any Roommates of the diagnosed
individual), the team must follow the Quarantine/Isolation Protocols set forth in
Section IX.H.3 above, which requires (in part) that such Covered Persons also
immediately cease any further interaction with any other Covered Persons.
Page 39 of 50
3. As promptly as possible, the team should also conduct a contact tracing

investigation to confirm that the only Covered Persons who were in Close Contact
within the preceding 14 days were those Covered Persons identified in the logs.
Note that health authorities may conduct contact tracing investigations as well,
and the results of any contact tracing investigations conducted by health
authorities shall control.
4. Notify those individuals that they have been exposed to a diagnosed case of
COVID-19 and that they need to self-quarantine. In providing this information,
do not reveal the name of the individual who tested positive. For each such
Covered Person, follow the process set forth above in subsection 3 above.
5. Immediately notify all three of the following League Office contacts via email:
Brett Luy (brett.luy@uslsoccer.com); Garrison Mason
(garrison.mason@uslsoccer.com); and Ryan Madden
(ryan.madden@uslsoccer.com). Do not reveal the name of the infected individual
in this communication; simply state that “a player” or “a staff member” has tested
positive.
In addition, the team should take the following steps to further mitigate the risk of
transmission to others:
6. Close any team-controlled areas where the individual who tested positive has
recently been for a period of at least 24 hours so that enhanced cleaning may be
conducted, and notify other teams whose facilities may have been exposed;
7. The team physician should notify the local health department in a manner
consistent with Health Authority Guidance;
8. Reinforce the importance of enhanced hygiene by all individuals throughout the

organization; and
9. Provide immediate Roommates of any infected individual with testing options,

additional PPE (e.g., masks, disposable gloves), and health guidance.
L. Suspected False Positive.
In the event that (a) a Covered Person tests positive for COVID-19, (b) based on all the
facts and circumstances, the team physician believes that the positive test is a false positive (i.e.,
the Covered Person is not actually infected with COVID-19); (c) the Covered Person testing
positive is entirely asymptomatic; and (d) the Covered Person testing positive has not had any
contact (including but not limited to Close Contact) with any other person with a diagnosed or
suspected case of COVID-19, the team physician may (but is not required to) adhere to the
following protocol in order to negate the results of the positive test:
1. Order two or more additional PCR tests on an expedited basis, at least one of
which must be a “real time” (i.e., not rapid) test with the sample collected via a
Page 40 of 50
nasopharyngeal swab by a health care provider with experience collecting such

samples; and
2. While awaiting the results of such tests, treat the Covered Person who has tested
positive as a diagnosed case of COVID-19, following the appropriate quarantine,
isolation, and other protocols.
3. If both additional PCR tests are negative, the team physician may, in his or her
discretion, treat the original test as a false positive.
Please note that, in such situations, the original test results will be reported to relevant
Health Authorities, who may require quarantining and isolation regardless of the subsequent tests
or the determination of the team physician. In such situations (as in all cases), teams must follow
Health Authority Guidance.
Page 41 of 50
XI. Stadium Operations
A. General
Unless a Protocol in this Stadium Operations section is explicitly noted as mandatory,

these Protocols are only to serve as a set of best practices. As with the rest of the Protocols,
however, teams must continue to comply with applicable Health Authority Guidance.
B. Preparations
1. Teams should remain in close communication with their state and local regulatory
authorities and continue to comply with any applicable Health Authority
Guidance related to re-opening.
2. In consultation with their local legal counsel, teams should familiarize themselves
with applicable federal, state, and local laws and recommendations related to team
personnel working the stadium. These include OSHA guidance for Medium Risk
workplaces, ADA and EEOC guidance, and CDC recommendations. Teams are
encouraged to survey team personnel who would report to the stadium for work as
to whether they have any concerns about returning, including because of a High
Risk Medical Condition.
3. Teams are responsible for procuring masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes,
cleaning services, signage, and other services and supplies in order to comply
with these Protocols. Teams should review existing contracts and stock and
determine if additional orders are needed.
C. Entry
1. Parking
a. Parking spaces should be distanced at least six feet apart. Teams

should develop a staggered parking structure (example below):
If possible, lot usage should correspond with the fan ingress point and seat
location.
Page 42 of 50
b. All parking passes should be presented behind the car window to

parking operations staff. Teams should encourage fans to pre-
purchase parking as needed. Any parking attendants should wear
masks while working the parking lot.
c. Teams should eliminate the “Pub to Pitch” and “March to Match”

programs for the 2021 season.
d. Teams should discourage this tailgating as much as possible. If

tailgating is allowed by the team, patrons should have the option to
purchase within a designated section of the parking lot that is non-
tailgating.
D. Fan Ingress
1. Teams should establish processes for entry into the venue that allow patrons to
socially distance (i.e., remain six feet apart). This may require closure of certain
ingress points. Options for accomplishing this include:
a. Entry into the venue through an ingress point which corresponds with
the fan’s seat location.
b. Provided there are mechanisms for ensuring social distancing while

fans are waiting, entry in “zones,” similar to an airport. This method
could alleviate higher numbers of individuals arriving at the gate
simultaneously. For example, if tickets are designated with zones 1-4,
for a 7:30 PM kickoff, ingress could look like the following:
6:00 - 6:30 p.m.: All zones can enter

6:30 - 6:45 p.m.: Zone 1 can enter
6:45 – 7:00 p.m.: Zone 2 can enter
7:00-7:15 p.m.: Zone 3 can enter
7:15-7:30 p.m.: Zone 4 can enter
7:30 and later: All Zones can enter
c. Opening gates earlier to spread out ingress times.
2. In any line, spots should be marked on the ground to illustrate social distancing
protocols.
Page 43 of 50
These markers are an opportunity to utilize team or sponsorship branding.
a. Teams should post graphics (i.e. pull up banners, LED, sidewalk

decals, etc.) depicting proper fan procedures and protocol and
education about preventing the spread of COVID-19 (e.g., regarding
the importance of washing hands, socially distancing where possible,
wearing masks where social distancing is not possible, and avoiding
touching their eyes, nose, and mouth).
b. Sponsored or gate giveaways are generally prohibited unless they are

in furtherance of fan safety (e.g., facemask, hand sanitizer). Any
giveaway is subject to League approval.
3. Screening
The following are guidelines with respect to team personnel other than Covered
Persons. Protocols relating to the screening of Covered Persons are as set forth in Section IV.
a. In general, prior to reporting to the facility, team personnel should be

surveyed/screened as to whether they: (a) are feeling sick, (b) are
experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or (c) have had close contact with
anyone who has a diagnosed or suspected case of COVID-19. Anyone
who answers affirmatively should not report.
b. Fans should be told in advance not to come to the match if they (a) are
feeling sick, (b) are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or (c) have
had close contact with anyone who has a diagnosed or suspected case
of COVID-19.
c. Fans, club-personnel, and other people reporting to the stadium should

be provided with information the risk of attending the match,
particularly if they or a person they regularly interact with has a High
Risk Conditions.
d. Upon reporting to the stadium, it is recommended that fans, club-

personnel, and other people reporting to the stadium are subject to
temperature checks (which may be through a temperature sensitive
Page 44 of 50
magnetometer). Anyone with a temperature of 100.4°F or above

should be asked to return home. If the team believes that fans’
temperatures may be inflated due to the summer heat or walk from
their vehicles, the team can develop “cool down” zones outside of
ingress points. These “cool down” zones are meant for a fans body
temperature to come down to “normal” and must be able to achieve
proper social distancing.
E. In-Venue Precautions
1. Fan Protection and Protocols.
a. It is strongly recommended that clubs institute masking requirements

within the stadium.
b. Teams should establish processes for moving throughout the venue

that allow patrons to socially distance (i.e., remain six feet apart).
Options for accomplishing this include splitting concourses down the
middle and having each side be “one way.”
c. In any line, spots should be marked on the ground to illustrate social

distancing protocols. Again, these markers are an opportunity to
utilize team or sponsorship branding.
d. Teams should post graphics (i.e. pull up banners, LED, sidewalk

decals, etc.) depicting proper fan procedures and protocol and
education about preventing the spread of COVID-19 (e.g., regarding
the importance of washing hands, socially distancing where possible,
wearing masks where social distancing is not possible, and avoiding
touching their eyes, nose, and mouth). PA announcements regarding
the above are also encouraged.
e. Hand sanitizer and hand washing stations must be available throughout

the venue and spread out amongst concourse areas, outside restrooms,
ingress/egress points, etc.
f. All teams should have masks on hand and available for fans who want
them.
g. Teams should take reasonable efforts to deter fans from singing or

chanting.
2. Team Personnel; OSHA Protective Standards
a. Subject to ADA considerations, team personnel working within and

around the venue (including parking attendants, security, merchandise,
ticketing, cleaning, and concessions staff) must wear masks.
Page 45 of 50
b. Team personnel should be encouraged not to congregate in shared

spaces such as break rooms, eating areas, etc. where social distancing
is difficult to accomplish.
c. Teams should install plexiglass barriers between team personnel and

the general public wherever this is logistically possible, including at
the box office and concessions and merchandise stands.
d. Where logistically possible, teams should modify or adjust

“workstations” or physical spacing between workers to maintain social
distancing of 6 feet between customers and employees.
e. Teams should communicate the availability of medical screening or

other worker health resources (e.g., on-site nurse; telemedicine
services).
3. Cleaning.
a. Teams must develop a match day stadium sanitation plan, which, at a

minimum, complies with applicable Health Authority Guidance
regarding cleaning.
b. Teams should consider increasing cleaning frequency, utilizing a

dedicated staff to perform cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitization at
regular intervals. This staff should be trained and provided the
equipment necessary (such as cleaning supplies and PPE) to conduct
cleaning services in accordance with applicable Health Authority
Guidance.
c. During match day, sanitation staff should be present throughout the

stadium to sanitizing/disinfect high touch areas on a regular basis.
These include door handles, handrails, barricades, elevator buttons,
tables, chairs, common areas, trash areas, etc. In order to accomplish
this, teams should consider having sanitation staff stationed throughout
the event in high-traffic areas, such as restrooms.
d. Teams may wish to consider using other staff to assist with sanitation,
where appropriate (e.g. consider whether ticket takers can sanitize the
venue after ingress is completed).
4. Security
a. USL security standards (as set forth in the Operations Manual) remain
in effect. Walk-through magnetometers are the safest and most-
effective option; but if these devices are unavailable, wand checks may
be performed by security guards wearing masks. “Pat downs” should
be utilized as a last resort option.
Page 46 of 50
b. Teams should consider prohibiting bags from the venue or only

allowing small clear plastic bags containing medicines, necessary
items, etc.
c. Typical supporter allowances (such as tifo, brass instruments, and

bullhorns) should be prohibited in venue
d. Percussion instruments and individual signs of support (2 poles, flags)

can be permitted.
5. Ticketing
a. Teams should consider contactless ticket scanning. Methods are listed

below, in order of preference:
i. Fan scans their own barcode for admittance;

ii. If this is not possible, the ticket collector can scan the ticket;
iii. Finally, if scanning is not an option, the traditional “rip” ticket may
be utilized; and
b. Will call and game day ticket purchase options can continue to take
place at the box office.
c. Gameday credentialing should be moved to the box office as well for

safety and ease of use.
d. All box office lines should have marked spots on the ground to
illustrate the 6-foot social distance spacing, and any individual line
should be at least 6 feet from any other line.
6. Seating and Seating Areas
a. Teams should submit a seating diagram for approval to the League

prior to fans being allowed in the venue.
b. Teams must ensure they retain sufficient ADA accessible and

companion seats as required by applicable law.
c. It is recommended that:
i. Seats not being utilized should be covered or physically altered so

they are not accessible. Teams may accomplish this, for example,
by: (a) covering seats with logos or sponsorships; (b) zip-tying
seats to backs; or (c) removing seats;
ii. Teams should (a) organize staircases so they are one way up or
down or (b) stagger empty rows to cut across sections as needed;
iii. Teams not sell SRO seats;
Page 47 of 50
iv. Teams use rope, tape, and/or markers should be used on bleachers
to identify seats; and
v. Teams discuss social distancing requirements in advance with
supporters’ groups.
7. Concessions.
a. It is recommended that concessions that are provided be in individual

packaging or containers (e.g., of the “grab and go” variety).
b. All condiments, napkins, utensils, etc., must be individually packaged

for distribution. Condiment carts, ketchup and mustard pumps, etc.,
must be removed or emptied.
c. Fans should be directed to return to their seats to eat. All tables, bar
tops, seating options, etc. on the concourse should be removed.
d. Concession lines must be spaced with 6-foot markers on the ground to

ensure proper line spacing and social distancing. In developing lines,
teams need to ensure these lines do not block the concourse.
e. In premium areas and team spaces, buffet style meals are not
permitted. Grab and go or plated options are the only acceptable meal
style. Barstools, tables, chairs, etc. must also be removed in the team
and premium areas.
f. Sanitation and hand washing stations should be placed next to or in

close proximity to concession stands.
g. If possible, teams are encouraged to enable fans to order/pay for

concessions from their seat with an app.
h. It is recommended that traditional food and beverage hawkers are

eliminated, given the difficulty of cashless options and the increased
exposure to fans.
8. Merchandise
a. Teams should consider utilizing an online or app “pre-order” process

for in-store merchandise pickup or in-seat delivery.
b. Teams should consider implementing a no “try on” policy and

removing frequently touched items such as mini balls, etc. Teams may
also consider using a “one-in, one-out” policy to ensure the store does
not become over-crowded.
Page 48 of 50
c. Merchandise lines must be spaced with 6-foot markers on the ground

to ensure proper line spacing. In developing lines, teams need to
ensure these lines to not block the concourse.
d. Depending on the number of registers, certain lines may need to be

closed to abide by social distancing standards.
9. Restrooms
a. Teams should consider replacing flushers, sinks, soap dispensers, and

hand towel dispensers with touchless options.
b. Aerosol dryers should be avoided, if possible.
c. Unless it creates too much exposure, primary restroom door should be

propped open (not stalls).
d. If restrooms have two entrances/exits, one door should be used for

each purpose. If restrooms only have one door, consider implementing
a “one in, one out” approach.
e. Frequently touched surfaces must be regularly disinfected. Teams

should consider keeping a staff member permanently in the restroom
to continue to clean, sanitize, and disinfect the space.
f. In the men’s room, eliminate urinals as needed to comply with 6-foot.

social distancing standard.
g. Restroom lines must be spaced with 6-foot markers on the ground to

ensure proper line spacing. In developing lines, teams need to ensure
these lines to not block the concourse.
h. If the venue utilizes portable toilets, consider placing a tissue or towel

dispenser at the door to minimize hand contact.
i. Outside of the portable toilet, place a hand sanitizing or hand washing

station.
10. Marketing Activities.
a. Marketing and/or promotional areas where social distancing is

impracticable (e.g., kid zones, inflatables, speed shot, goalkeeper
challenge, soccer darts, cage soccer) are not permitted.
b. Marketing giveaways are permissible, subject to prior League

approval.
Page 49 of 50
c. Consistent with Section VII.A, post-game autograph sessions or other

situations in which players would be required to be in direct contact
with fans are not permitted.
F. Exit
1. Teams should establish processes for exit that allow patrons to socially distance
(i.e., remain six feet apart) during the exit. This may require closure of certain
egress points.
2. Prior to the end of the match, LED, scoreboard, and PA messaging should inform
fans of the controlled egress process. Ushers should control and implement the
processes, and stadium staff should also be managing high traffic egress areas
such as escalators, elevators, ramps, etc.
3. Controlled exit processes may not apply in the event of an emergency exit.
Page 50 of 50
Exhibit III.A.1
High-Risk Medical Conditions
Adults of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for severe
illness from the virus that causes COVID-19. Severe illness from COVID-19 is defined as
hospitalization, admission to the ICU, intubation or mechanical ventilation, or death.
Adults of any age with the following conditions are at increased risk of severe illness from the
virus that causes COVID-19:
• Cancer
• Chronic kidney disease
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Down Syndrome
• Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
• Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant
• Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)
• Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
COVID-19 is a new disease. Currently there are limited data and information about the impact
of many underlying medical conditions on the risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Based on
what we know at this time, adults of any age with the following conditions might be at an
increased risk for severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19:
• Asthma (moderate-to-severe)
• Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)
• Cystic fibrosis
• Hypertension or high blood pressure
• Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow
transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune
weakening medicines
• Neurologic conditions, such as dementia
• Liver disease
• Overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2, but < 30 kg/m2)
• Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues)
• Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)
• Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Exhibit III.B.2
Waiver/Assumption of Risk Document for Academy Players
[Included on the following pages]

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE
RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT
FOR ACADEMY PLAYERS AND TRIALISTS
In consideration for being allowed to participate as an academy player or trialist in events and activities
related to the USL Championship or USL League One, including activities organized by or on behalf of my
club and the activities incidental thereto (e.g., activities associates with travel with my club) (collectively,
“Soccer Activities”), I, the undersigned, acknowledge and agree as follows:
There is an ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, a contagious virus which may cause severe illness, other
adverse medical reactions, quarantine requirements, transmission to friends and/or family, and/or death in
addition to other adverse results, the scope of which may not be fully understood given that COVID-19 is
a novel virus and has not yet been fully evaluated by the medical community (“Virus Risks”). COVID-19
is believed to spread mainly from person-to-person contact, aerosol droplets, and also through surfaces, and
it may be spread by individuals who are pre-symptomatic or asymptomatic.
My participation in Soccer Activities as an academy player or trialist will substantially increase my risk of
exposure to COVID-19, given that, by their nature, Soccer Activities involve person-to-person contact. I
agree to assume full responsibility for any resulting Virus Risks, whether they be known or unknown.
USL Championship and USL League One, their affiliates, and the clubs and their affiliates have established
certain requirements and protocols (“Protocols”) in consultation with medical consultants designed to
reduce the Virus Risks; however, significant Virus Risk remains despite the Protocols. The Protocols
include the requirement that all players, including academy players and trialists, submit to regular COVID-
19 testing and agree to share the results of such testing with certain persons in order to prevent the spread
of the virus. I agree to strictly comply with the Protocols, including by submitting to testing and agreeing
to share any results of the testing as set forth therein.
I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and next of kin, HEREBY
RELEASE, INDEMNIFY, AND HOLD HARMLESS UNITED SOCCER LEAGUES, LLC, USL
PRO, LLC, USL PRO-2, LLC AND THEIR AFFILIATES (“LEAGUES”) IN ADDITION TO EACH
OF THE LEAGUES’ CLUBS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES, and each of their respective
directors, officers, officials, agents and/or employees, associated personnel, other participants, sponsors,
advertisers, and, if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event (“Releasees”), from
any and all claims, demands, losses, and liability arising out of or related to any ILLNESS, INJURY,
DISABILITY OR DEATH that I or a third party may suffer as a result of the Virus Risks or the Soccer
Activities, WHETHER ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR
OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Continued on the following page

I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT,
FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL
RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND SIGN IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY
INDUCEMENT.
X_____________________________________________ ___________________________
Participant’s Signature Date
______________________________________________ ___________________________
Participant’s Printed Name Phone Number
FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS OF PARTICIPANT OF MINOR AGE (UNDER AGE 18 AT TIME

OF REGISTRATION)
This is to certify that I, as parent/guardian with legal responsibility for this Participant, do consent and agree to
his/her release as provided above of all the Releasees, and, for myself, my heirs, assigns, and next of kin, I release
and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Releasees from any and all liability incidents to my minor child’s
involvement or participation in these programs as provided above, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE
NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
X_____________________________________________ ___________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
______________________________________________ ___________________________
Parent/Guardian Printed Name Phone Number
Exhibit IV.A
Questionnaire / Log
All players and club personnel who interact with players (collectively, “Covered Persons”)
are required to complete the following questionnaire and log each morning, submitting it to the
Health Officer or a team designee before reporting to the team facilities or otherwise participating
in any team activities.
1. In the past 72 hours, have you experienced any of the following symptoms?
Yes No
Shortness of Breath or
Difficulty Breathing
Cough
Fever
Headache
Chills
Sore Throat
Loss of Taste or Smell
Abnormal Muscle Pain
Nasal Congestion
Runny Nose
Diarrhea
Fatigue
If you answered “Yes” to any of the above, please provide details (use additional sheet if
necessary): ____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. To your knowledge, have you had a fever at or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit?
Yes No
If you answered “Yes,” please provide detail below (including temperature readings, if
available): _____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. Do you have reason to believe that you, or anyone with whom you’ve had close contact,
may have been exposed to Covid-19 in the past 14 days?
Yes No
If you answered “Yes,” please provide detail below: _____________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Have you been within six feet of any other Covered Person for fifteen minutes or more
since the last time you completed this questionnaire? If so, please list all such individuals
(including your roommates):
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
NAME: _________________ DATE: _________________

Exhibit VIII.A.1
Bus Seat Mapping
Passengers: +/-
Seats: 54
X 14
X 2 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
X 4 1
54 14

USL Championship 2021 Return To Play Protocols

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USL Championship 2021 Return To Play Protocols

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Return-to-Play Protocols

Version: as of May 4, 2021

II. Social Distancing Requirements ............................................................................ 3

C. Academy Players; Non-Team Activities. .............................................................. 3

D. Consistent Partners – Limiting Close Contacts ..................................................... 4

III. Preparations ............................................................................................................ 5

A. High Risk Medical Conditions/Concern About Returning. .................................. 5

B. Establishing the List of Covered Persons.............................................................. 7

C. Return to Market (Resumption of Training). ........................................................ 7

C. Home Team Checks. ............................................................................................. 9

V. Full Squad Training and Treatment ................................................................... 10

B. General Training Protocols. ................................................................................ 10

C. Treatment Protocols ............................................................................................ 11

D. Facility Access .................................................................................................... 12

E. Weight Room Protocols. ..................................................................................... 12

F. Cleaning Protocols. ............................................................................................. 13

VI. Visiting Team Training Prior to Match Day ...................................................... 14

A. Protocols for Visiting Team Training. ................................................................ 14

C. Requesting Use of Training Facility. .................................................................. 14

D. Maintaining Social Distance. .............................................................................. 14

E. Home Team Obligations. .................................................................................... 15

B. Promotional Video Shoots/Interviews. ............................................................... 17

D. Press Box. ............................................................................................................ 18

E. Media Access. ..................................................................................................... 18

VIII. Match Day Protocols ......................................................................................... 19

A. Arrival to Venue .................................................................................................. 19

B. Locker Rooms ..................................................................................................... 20

E. In-Game Operations ............................................................................................ 23

IX. Travel ..................................................................................................................... 26

A. Bus Travel ........................................................................................................... 26

B. Air Travel ............................................................................................................ 27

D. Requirements for Members of the Traveling Party. ............................................ 29

X. Monitoring, Testing, Quarantine, and Isolation ................................................ 30

C. Treatment Set-Up. ............................................................................................... 30

D. Away Market Plan............................................................................................... 30

F. Additional Self-Quarantining Obligations. ......................................................... 35

H. New Covered Persons. ........................................................................................ 37

J. Regular Reporting Protocol................................................................................. 39

K. Positive Case Protocol......................................................................................... 39

L. Suspected False Positive. .................................................................................... 40

XI. Stadium Operations .............................................................................................. 42

D. Fan Ingress .......................................................................................................... 43

E. In-Venue Precautions .......................................................................................... 45

III.A.1 List of High-Risk Medical Conditions

IV.A Questionnaire / Log

USL consulted with a variety of stakeholders in the development of these protocols. As

II. Social Distancing Requirements

C. Academy Players; Non-Team Activities.

1. If an academy player is going to train or otherwise participate in team activities,

2. Notwithstanding paragraph 1 above, Academy players are not prohibited from

to returning to the professional team. Teams should be aware that any

a. Exception: For players on a residential academy team (e.g., RSL

D. Consistent Partners – Limiting Close Contacts

A. High Risk Medical Conditions/Concern About Returning.

1. The League will continue to make educational materials about COVID-19

a. If a Player is expressing concern because, after having signed the

b. If a Player is expressing concern but (i) the reason is something other

B. Establishing the List of Covered Persons.

C. Return to Market (Resumption of Training).

1. Generally. Prior to commencing full team training, a Covered Person must

C. Home Team Checks.

V. Full Squad Training and Treatment

B. General Training Protocols.