U SPORTS announced Monday that it is beginning its consultation process with member universities and stakeholders to review its football eligibility policies.

“After discussions with our membership, we have determined that it’s an appropriate time to explore ways to improve the current safety and participation policies in football with an anticipated completion date of February 2021,” said Dick White, U SPORTS’ Interim Chief Executive Officer. “Although there are many negative impacts of the COVID pandemic, there are also opportunities to make some changes.”

As a result of the time frame required to conduct the review, U SPORTS will provide a one-time exception to Policy 40.10.4.3.1.1, thereby permitting all currently eligible student-athletes to participate in the 2021 football season, even if they exceed the current policy before the start of the 2021 campaign.