Temple cancels Cherry & White Football Fan Fest because of coronavirus; spring practice suspended at least two weeks

The Temple football team has canceled its Cherry and White Fan Fest, scheduled for April 4, because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Under second-year coach Rod Carey, the Owls haven’t played a spring football game, but the Fan Fest served as that and the culmination of the spring season. It was an open practice, where fans could come out and see the team.

In addition, spring practice and all other sports in non-championship seasons have been suspended for at least the next two weeks.

“Our primary concern, as always, is the health and safety of our student-athletes,” Carey said. “That will always take precedence over anything else. This is uncharted territory for all of us. We will take the time while continuing to monitor a very fluid situation.”

The NCAA allows 15 spring practice dates for football, including the spring game or Fan Fest. The Owls have had two spring practices, Tuesday and Wednesday.

“The health and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and fans is of paramount concern, and we will continue to monitor the situation and take additional actions if warranted,” the university said in a statement.

Later on Thursday, the American Athletic Conference, of which Temple is a member, suspended its spring sports competition until further notice.

The university had earlier announced a decision to move courses online effective March 16.

It also postponed its football Pro Day, which was scheduled for Monday. No new date has been selected. The NFL draft is scheduled for April 23-25.

Temple’s football program is coming off an 8-5 season, which ended with a 55-13 loss to North Carolina in the Military Bowl. It was the fifth consecutive bowl appearance for the Owls.