MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State football players have called off a threatened boycott in response to an insensitive tweet by a student about the death of George Floyd.

The decision, announced on social media by several players, follows moves by the school to address diversity concerns.

“We appreciate the diligent work of our university and athletics administration as we work through these important issues,”&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Pbrooks124/status/1279083238640824320?s=20" target="_blank">according to the letter posted on Twitter</a>. “The plans and action items released Wednesday are great first steps in our goal of defeating hate and racism on our campus, and therefore, we have decided to return to workouts with our teammates.

“However, we know that this process is far from completed, and should it slow or diminish for any reason we would re-evaluate the situation and our options at that time.”

Kansas State players aren’t currently participating in any practices or workouts because team activities were suspended earlier this month after a coronavirus outbreak within the team. Summer workouts are expected to resume July 13.

Last week, one month after Floyd died when a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on the Black handcuffed man’s neck, Kansas State student Jaden McNeil tweeted: “Congratulations to George Floyd on being drug free for an entire month!”

Several football players immediately threatened to boycott if the university declined to take action, and basketball players and other athletes soon joined the push. On Saturday, the football team issued a formal statement calling on university President Richard Myers and other administrative staff to make meaningful changes to the campus culture.

The school responded Wednesday by launching a diversity and education fund. Among other initiatives, Kansas State also promised that athletes, coaches and staff would undergo mandatory diversity and inclusion training that includes monthly town hall sessions; redouble efforts to recruit applicants from diverse backgrounds for staff and coaching positions; utilize home games to support the Black Lives Matter movement; highlight Black History Month; and provide transportation to athletes to voting locations on Election Day.

“The university has committed to developing meaningful, measurable action plans with concrete steps,” Myers wrote in an open letter Wednesday. “These proposed steps take into account the reality that, as a governmental entity, we must operate within the law. There have been many calls for us to expel a student who posted racist messages on social media, and while these messages are disrespectful and abhorrent, we cannot violate the law.”

Football coach Chris Klieman, who is entering his second season, said he supported his players and that “I am excited to help every player unite for the solution now, so that we can come together stronger than ever. Black lives matter.”

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State football players have called off a threatened boycott in response to an insensitive tweet by a student about the death of George Floyd.The decision, announced on social media by several players, follows moves by the school to address diversity concerns.“We appreciate the diligent work of our university and athletics administration as we work through these important issues,”&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Pbrooks124/status/1279083238640824320?s=20" target="_blank">according to the letter posted on Twitter</a>. “The plans and action items released Wednesday are great first steps in our goal of defeating hate and racism on our campus, and therefore, we have decided to return to workouts with our teammates.“However, we know that this process is far from completed, and should it slow or diminish for any reason we would re-evaluate the situation and our options at that time.”Kansas State players aren’t currently participating in any practices or workouts because team activities were suspended earlier this month after a coronavirus outbreak within the team. Summer workouts are expected to resume July 13.Last week, one month after Floyd died when a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on the Black handcuffed man’s neck, Kansas State student Jaden McNeil tweeted: “Congratulations to George Floyd on being drug free for an entire month!”Several football players immediately threatened to boycott if the university declined to take action, and basketball players and other athletes soon joined the push. On Saturday, the football team issued a formal statement calling on university President Richard Myers and other administrative staff to make meaningful changes to the campus culture.The school responded Wednesday by launching a diversity and education fund. Among other initiatives, Kansas State also promised that athletes, coaches and staff would undergo mandatory diversity and inclusion training that includes monthly town hall sessions; redouble efforts to recruit applicants from diverse backgrounds for staff and coaching positions; utilize home games to support the Black Lives Matter movement; highlight Black History Month; and provide transportation to athletes to voting locations on Election Day.“The university has committed to developing meaningful, measurable action plans with concrete steps,” Myers wrote in an open letter Wednesday. “These proposed steps take into account the reality that, as a governmental entity, we must operate within the law. There have been many calls for us to expel a student who posted racist messages on social media, and while these messages are disrespectful and abhorrent, we cannot violate the law.”Football coach Chris Klieman, who is entering his second season, said he supported his players and that “I am excited to help every player unite for the solution now, so that we can come together stronger than ever. Black lives matter.”

K-State football players end threat of boycott over Floyd tweet

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Dodger Stadium’s 40-year wait to host the All-Star Game is going to last even longer.

The game scheduled for July 14 was canceled Friday because of the coronavirus pandemic, and Dodger Stadium was awarded the 2022 Midsummer Classic. The 2021 game is set for Atlanta’s Truist Park, home to the Braves since 2017.

Because of the pandemic, opening day had already been delayed from March 26 to July 23 or 24.

“Once it became clear we were unable to hold this year’s All-Star festivities, we wanted to award the Dodgers with the next available All-Star Game, which is 2022,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.

No date for the 2022 game has been announced, although Dodgers President Stan Kasten said it would take place in the third week of July.

This year will be the first time since 1945 that no game is held. Travel restrictions because of World War II kept the game scheduled for Boston’s Fenway Park and any player selections from taking place that year. It was pushed back to the next season.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Dodger Stadium’s 40-year wait to host the All-Star Game is going to last even longer.The game scheduled for July 14 was canceled Friday because of the coronavirus pandemic, and Dodger Stadium was awarded the 2022 Midsummer Classic. The 2021 game is set for Atlanta’s Truist Park, home to the Braves since 2017.Because of the pandemic, opening day had already been delayed from March 26 to July 23 or 24.“Once it became clear we were unable to hold this year’s All-Star festivities, we wanted to award the Dodgers with the next available All-Star Game, which is 2022,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.No date for the 2022 game has been announced, although Dodgers President Stan Kasten said it would take place in the third week of July.This year will be the first time since 1945 that no game is held. Travel restrictions because of World War II kept the game scheduled for Boston’s Fenway Park and any player selections from taking place that year. It was pushed back to the next season.

MLB cancels All Star game for 2020

UNDATED (AP) — A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that the NFL will cut the preseason in half and push the start of exhibition play back a week to give players more time to get in shape. 

Players are still discussing with their union whether to ask for cancellation of all preseason games, according to two people familiar with their thinking. The pandemic forced teams to conduct their entire offseason programs via videoconference. So, teams will be gathering together for the first time when training camps open July 28.

UNDATED (AP) — A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that the NFL will cut the preseason in half and push the start of exhibition play back a week to give players more time to get in shape. Players are still discussing with their union whether to ask for cancellation of all preseason games, according to two people familiar with their thinking. The pandemic forced teams to conduct their entire offseason programs via videoconference. So, teams will be gathering together for the first time when training camps open July 28.

NFL to reduce the number of preseason games

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The NCAA’s infractions case against the University of Kansas men’s basketball program has been accepted into a newly created independent investigation process that was created to handle especially complex cases. 

The Independent Accountability Resolution Process said Wednesday that a referral of the case against the Jayhawks and coach Bill Self had been approved by the infractions referral committee. It is the first step in a process that was created in August 2018 to deal with select cases and minimize perceived conflicts of interest.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The NCAA’s infractions case against the University of Kansas men’s basketball program has been accepted into a newly created independent investigation process that was created to handle especially complex cases. The Independent Accountability Resolution Process said Wednesday that a referral of the case against the Jayhawks and coach Bill Self had been approved by the infractions referral committee. It is the first step in a process that was created in August 2018 to deal with select cases and minimize perceived conflicts of interest.

NCAA case against Kansas hoops taken for independent review

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas State is launching a diversity and education fund to address racial injustice after football players threatened a boycott in response to an insensitive tweet by a student about the death of George Floyd. 

The school also said student-athletes, coaches and staff would undergo mandatory diversity and inclusion training that includes monthly town hall sessions. And it announced that it would provide transportation for athletes to voting locations on Election Day.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas State is launching a diversity and education fund to address racial injustice after football players threatened a boycott in response to an insensitive tweet by a student about the death of George Floyd. The school also said student-athletes, coaches and staff would undergo mandatory diversity and inclusion training that includes monthly town hall sessions. And it announced that it would provide transportation for athletes to voting locations on Election Day.

KSU will start a diversity and education fund

NEW YORK (AP) — Baseball’s minor leagues canceled their seasons because of the coronavirus pandemic, and the head of their governing body said more than half the 160 teams were in danger of failing without government assistance or private equity injections. 

The National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues made the long-expected announcement. Pat O'Conner, the president of the governing body, O’Conner estimated 85-90% of revenue was related to ticket money, concessions, parking and ballpark advertising. 

The minors drew 41.5 million fans last year for 176 teams in 15 leagues.

NEW YORK (AP) — Baseball’s minor leagues canceled their seasons because of the coronavirus pandemic, and the head of their governing body said more than half the 160 teams were in danger of failing without government assistance or private equity injections. The National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues made the long-expected announcement. Pat O'Conner, the president of the governing body, O’Conner estimated 85-90% of revenue was related to ticket money, concessions, parking and ballpark advertising. The minors drew 41.5 million fans last year for 176 teams in 15 leagues.

Minor League baseball seasons are canceled

PHOENIX (AP) — Players like Diamondbacks pitcher Mike Leake and Nationals slugger Ryan Zimmerman say they're opting out of the upcoming 60-game season. The Minnesota Twins have shuffled their on-field staff to protect the health of some older coaches. 

Major League Baseball is lurching toward a late July start during the coronavirus crises and it's clear flexibility will be key. Teams and players are trying to prepare for the season while keeping everyone healthy, which has already proven to be difficult. The Philadelphia Phillies had an outbreak at their spring training facility earlier this month that showed how challenging the task will be.

PHOENIX (AP) — Players like Diamondbacks pitcher Mike Leake and Nationals slugger Ryan Zimmerman say they're opting out of the upcoming 60-game season. The Minnesota Twins have shuffled their on-field staff to protect the health of some older coaches. Major League Baseball is lurching toward a late July start during the coronavirus crises and it's clear flexibility will be key. Teams and players are trying to prepare for the season while keeping everyone healthy, which has already proven to be difficult. The Philadelphia Phillies had an outbreak at their spring training facility earlier this month that showed how challenging the task will be.

Plans change in mlb because of health issues 

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State football players say they will boycott all team activities until administrators create a policy that would allow a student to be expelled for “openly racist, threatening or disrespectful actions.”

The move that most players announced Saturday on social media follows a tweet by a student about the death of George Floyd that prompted outrage on campus.

“We are demanding that Kansas State University put a policy in place that allows a student to be dismissed for displaying openly racist, threatening or disrespectful actions toward a student or groups of students,” the players said in the letter they posted. “We have resolved that we cannot play, practice or meet until these demands are heard and actions taken. We love Kansas State, but we must stand together and protect all students moving forward.”

On Thursday, one month after Floyd, a Black man, died after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on his neck for nearly eight minutes, student Jaden McNeil tweeted, “Congratulations to George Floyd on being drug free for an entire month!”

University officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9cbc7e6f1ea966a3ed52b19adbeee4ff">have said they are exploring their options</a>&nbsp;for action after the tweet. University President Richard Myers said Friday that “divisive statements do not represent for the values of our university.”

McNeil describes himself as the founder of a conservative group called America First Students, which Kansas State says is not currently registered on the campus because of a lack of membership. America First Students had already drawn the ire of students for past statements made by McNeil.

McNeil has previously said America First Students is a “mainstream, Christian, conservative organization that supports President Donald Trump.”

The statement from football players Saturday came a day after a pair of Kansas State basketball players and a handful of football players threatened a boycott if the university didn’t take action. A number of college athletes around the country&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0499502808a6b4cfd68bf082928a59ec">have used their influence to push for social justice</a>&nbsp;since Floyd’s death.

Kansas State football players aren’t currently participating in any practices or workouts because team activities were suspended earlier this month after a coronavirus outbreak within the team. Summer workouts are expected to resume July 13.

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State football players say they will boycott all team activities until administrators create a policy that would allow a student to be expelled for “openly racist, threatening or disrespectful actions.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are all Wildcats <a href="https://twitter.com/KState?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KState</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrideMonth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrideMonth</a> <a href="https://t.co/bQl7x5aRFO">pic.twitter.com/bQl7x5aRFO</a>&mdash; K-State Athletics (@kstatesports) <a href="https://twitter.com/kstatesports/status/1277229333082341377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The move that most players announced Saturday on social media follows a tweet by a student about the death of George Floyd that prompted outrage on campus.“We are demanding that Kansas State University put a policy in place that allows a student to be dismissed for displaying openly racist, threatening or disrespectful actions toward a student or groups of students,” the players said in the letter they posted. “We have resolved that we cannot play, practice or meet until these demands are heard and actions taken. We love Kansas State, but we must stand together and protect all students moving forward.”On Thursday, one month after Floyd, a Black man, died after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on his neck for nearly eight minutes, student Jaden McNeil tweeted, “Congratulations to George Floyd on being drug free for an entire month!”University officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9cbc7e6f1ea966a3ed52b19adbeee4ff">have said they are exploring their options</a>&nbsp;for action after the tweet. University President Richard Myers said Friday that “divisive statements do not represent for the values of our university.”McNeil describes himself as the founder of a conservative group called America First Students, which Kansas State says is not currently registered on the campus because of a lack of membership. America First Students had already drawn the ire of students for past statements made by McNeil.McNeil has previously said America First Students is a “mainstream, Christian, conservative organization that supports President Donald Trump.”The statement from football players Saturday came a day after a pair of Kansas State basketball players and a handful of football players threatened a boycott if the university didn’t take action. A number of college athletes around the country&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0499502808a6b4cfd68bf082928a59ec">have used their influence to push for social justice</a>&nbsp;since Floyd’s death.Kansas State football players aren’t currently participating in any practices or workouts because team activities were suspended earlier this month after a coronavirus outbreak within the team. Summer workouts are expected to resume July 13.___

K-State players announce boycott after student's Floyd tweet

St. Joseph—After much discussion over the past several months, the Kansas City Chiefs officially notified Missouri State University (MWSU) this week that they will be unable to hold their 2020 Training Camp at Missouri Western due to the NFL’s evolving policies in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a statement from Josh Looney, vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Missouri Western State University.

Both MWSU and the Chiefs were very excited about the potential of our 11th training camp in St. Joseph this summer, but with health and safety a top priority surrounding the many facets of hosting an NFL Training Camp, the university understands and appreciate the need for caution. 

Fans in St. Joseph look forward to rooting on the defending Super Bowl champs throughout this coming season and welcoming them back to the MWSU campus in July 2021 and beyond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591814013520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph—After much discussion over the past several months, the Kansas City Chiefs officially notified Missouri State University (MWSU) this week that they will be unable to hold their 2020 Training Camp at Missouri Western due to the NFL’s evolving policies in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a statement from Josh Looney, vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Missouri Western State University.Both MWSU and the Chiefs were very excited about the potential of our 11th training camp in St. Joseph this summer, but with health and safety a top priority surrounding the many facets of hosting an NFL Training Camp, the university understands and appreciate the need for caution. Fans in St. Joseph look forward to rooting on the defending Super Bowl champs throughout this coming season and welcoming them back to the MWSU campus in July 2021 and beyond.

Chiefs won't hold training camp at Missouri Western this summer

&nbsp;Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. has announced&nbsp; that Major League Baseball anticipates beginning its 2020 regular season approximately one month from now, on July 23rd or July 24th.

The announcement follows confirmation that the MLB Players Association has accepted the health and safety protocols that will guide MLB’s return to play and that players will be able to report for training by July 1st.&nbsp;

MLB has submitted a 60-game regular season schedule for review by the Players Association. The proposed schedule will largely feature divisional play, with the remaining portion of each Club’s games against their opposite league’s corresponding geographical division (i.e., East vs. East, Central vs. Central and West vs. West), in order to mitigate travel. The vast majority of Major League Clubs are expected to conduct training at the ballparks in their primary home cities.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. has announced&nbsp; that Major League Baseball anticipates beginning its 2020 regular season approximately one month from now, on July 23rd or July 24th.The announcement follows confirmation that the MLB Players Association has accepted the health and safety protocols that will guide MLB’s return to play and that players will be able to report for training by July 1st.&nbsp;MLB has submitted a 60-game regular season schedule for review by the Players Association. The proposed schedule will largely feature divisional play, with the remaining portion of each Club’s games against their opposite league’s corresponding geographical division (i.e., East vs. East, Central vs. Central and West vs. West), in order to mitigate travel. The vast majority of Major League Clubs are expected to conduct training at the ballparks in their primary home cities.&nbsp;

Major League baseball will return in July

Wild West Fest Baseball Tournament in Hays seeks team entries

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics, in conjunction with university and county medical officials, has announced it has paused all voluntary workouts for football student-athletes for 14 days following the most recent COVID-19 test results. As of June 19, a total of 14 student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing of more than 130 student-athletes. The 14 individuals who have tested positive are being medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer.&nbsp; “The health and well-being of our student-athletes will always be our top priority,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Following the most recent test results, we felt like temporarily pausing all football workouts and access to our facilities was the best decision for everyone. We continue to take this situation very seriously and want to do everything we can to get back to workouts soon.” The department will continue to work closely and communicate with county and university health officials to evaluate the situation and continue best practices.

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics, in conjunction with university and county medical officials, has announced it has paused all voluntary workouts for football student-athletes for 14 days following the most recent COVID-19 test results. As of June 19, a total of 14 student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing of more than 130 student-athletes. The 14 individuals who have tested positive are being medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer.&nbsp; “The health and well-being of our student-athletes will always be our top priority,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Following the most recent test results, we felt like temporarily pausing all football workouts and access to our facilities was the best decision for everyone. We continue to take this situation very seriously and want to do everything we can to get back to workouts soon.” The department will continue to work closely and communicate with county and university health officials to evaluate the situation and continue best practices.

K-State pauses all voluntary workouts for football student-athletes

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Phillies say five players have tested positive for COVID-19 this week at the team’s spring training complex in Clearwater, Florida. The situation has prompted the Phillies to indefinitely shut their camp. 

The Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants also closed their spring training sites because of virus concerns. The moves came while Major League Baseball owners and players try to negotiate a deal to start the season. They had hoped to begin a second round of spring training on June 26. Most teams would likely hold those workouts at their home ballparks, rather than at their spring camps in Florida and Arizona.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Phillies say five players have tested positive for COVID-19 this week at the team’s spring training complex in Clearwater, Florida. The situation has prompted the Phillies to indefinitely shut their camp. The Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants also closed their spring training sites because of virus concerns. The moves came while Major League Baseball owners and players try to negotiate a deal to start the season. They had hoped to begin a second round of spring training on June 26. Most teams would likely hold those workouts at their home ballparks, rather than at their spring camps in Florida and Arizona.

Five Phils test positive for virus, three teams shut spring camps

The NCAA Division I Council  approved a plan to allow college basketball players to start working with their coaches for the first time since the pandemic wiped out March Madness. 

The summer access period for men’s and women’s players will begin July 20. The NCAA also announced the expected approval by the council of an extended preseason model for football teams. And the council introduced a legislative proposal to create a path for schools to transition straight from Division III to Division I, paving the way for St. Thomas (Minn.) to make that jump as soon as next year.&nbsp;

The NCAA Division I Council approved a plan to allow college basketball players to start working with their coaches for the first time since the pandemic wiped out March Madness. The summer access period for men’s and women’s players will begin July 20. The NCAA also announced the expected approval by the council of an extended preseason model for football teams. And the council introduced a legislative proposal to create a path for schools to transition straight from Division III to Division I, paving the way for St. Thomas (Minn.) to make that jump as soon as next year.&nbsp;

NCAA approves plan for basketball players to access coaches

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics will honor a group of 11 outstanding individuals with induction into its Athletics Hall of Fame in September, school officials announced today.

The 2020 Hall of Fame class includes three football greats in&nbsp;David Allen,&nbsp;Jordy Nelson&nbsp;and&nbsp;Darren Sproles,&nbsp;Laurie Koehn&nbsp;(women’s basketball),&nbsp;Liz Wegner&nbsp;(volleyball),&nbsp;A.J. Morris&nbsp;(baseball),&nbsp;Mike Wreblewski&nbsp;(men’s basketball),&nbsp;Attila Zsiovczky&nbsp;(track and field) and&nbsp;Marty, John and Mary Vanier&nbsp;(contributors).

“This year’s group of 11 individuals is a star-studded class, and we are excited to welcome them into the K-State Athletics Hall of Fame,” said&nbsp;Kenny Lannou, Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications and K-State Athletics Hall of Fame Chairperson. “Each of these inductees has made a lasting impact on K-State Athletics and Kansas State University, and we look forward to welcoming them back to Manhattan this fall for a special induction weekend.”

The class is the 13th in the history of the K-State Athletics Hall of Fame, including the charter class of 1990, and will be honored during the weekend of September 5. Official induction ceremonies will take place on Friday, September 4, before the inductees are recognized at halftime of the football game against Buffalo the following day.

More ceremony details will be announced later this summer.

Assistant Athletics Director for Communications

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592410133716.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics will honor a group of 11 outstanding individuals with induction into its Athletics Hall of Fame in September, school officials announced today.The 2020 Hall of Fame class includes three football greats in&nbsp;David Allen,&nbsp;Jordy Nelson&nbsp;and&nbsp;Darren Sproles,&nbsp;Laurie Koehn&nbsp;(women’s basketball),&nbsp;Liz Wegner&nbsp;(volleyball),&nbsp;A.J. Morris&nbsp;(baseball),&nbsp;Mike Wreblewski&nbsp;(men’s basketball),&nbsp;Attila Zsiovczky&nbsp;(track and field) and&nbsp;Marty, John and Mary Vanier&nbsp;(contributors).“This year’s group of 11 individuals is a star-studded class, and we are excited to welcome them into the K-State Athletics Hall of Fame,” said&nbsp;Kenny Lannou, Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications and K-State Athletics Hall of Fame Chairperson. “Each of these inductees has made a lasting impact on K-State Athletics and Kansas State University, and we look forward to welcoming them back to Manhattan this fall for a special induction weekend.”The class is the 13th in the history of the K-State Athletics Hall of Fame, including the charter class of 1990, and will be honored during the weekend of September 5. Official induction ceremonies will take place on Friday, September 4, before the inductees are recognized at halftime of the football game against Buffalo the following day.More ceremony details will be announced later this summer.RYAN LACKEYAssistant Athletics Director for Communications

Kansas State announces 2020 Athletics Hall of Fame Class

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics has confirmed that two student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing and the on-boarding process of approximately 120 student-athletes through June 16. All student-athletes are required to follow the department’s return-to-campus policy which includes a 7-day stay-at-home recommendation and quarantine upon arrival in Manhattan and prior to testing. Under this protocol, student-athletes are not allowed inside any department facilities nor can they participate in any voluntary or required team activities until they have received a negative test result. “We will always keep our focus on the health and well-being of our student-athletes and staff,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “A small number of positive tests was something that we were anticipating based on what we are seeing from across college football, and our medical staff and coaching staffs are well-prepared for the next steps. While we know this is a very fluid situation, we have a great plan in place and all of our student-athletes have done their part in following the correct procedures to return to campus.” Each student-athlete that tests positive is medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer. These guidelines would also include quarantine for any individuals known to have been in contact with someone who tested positive. The department will continue PCR and antibody testing of student-athletes as they return to campus, and those results will be released upon completion.

– k-statesports.com –

KENNY LANNOU Executive Associate A.D. for Communications and Public Relations | K-State Athletics

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics has confirmed that two student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing and the on-boarding process of approximately 120 student-athletes through June 16. All student-athletes are required to follow the department’s return-to-campus policy which includes a 7-day stay-at-home recommendation and quarantine upon arrival in Manhattan and prior to testing. Under this protocol, student-athletes are not allowed inside any department facilities nor can they participate in any voluntary or required team activities until they have received a negative test result. “We will always keep our focus on the health and well-being of our student-athletes and staff,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “A small number of positive tests was something that we were anticipating based on what we are seeing from across college football, and our medical staff and coaching staffs are well-prepared for the next steps. While we know this is a very fluid situation, we have a great plan in place and all of our student-athletes have done their part in following the correct procedures to return to campus.” Each student-athlete that tests positive is medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer. These guidelines would also include quarantine for any individuals known to have been in contact with someone who tested positive. The department will continue PCR and antibody testing of student-athletes as they return to campus, and those results will be released upon completion. – k-statesports.com –KENNY LANNOU Executive Associate A.D. for Communications and Public Relations | K-State Athletics

K-State Athletics Confirms Two Active Positives for COVID-19 with PCR Testing as of June 16

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A pair of K-State Football Ring of Honor members,&nbsp;Michael Bishop&nbsp;and&nbsp;Darren Sproles, were among 78 Football Bowl Subdivision players named to the 2021 ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, the National Football Foundation (NFF) announced today.

Sproles is on the ballot for the first time, while Bishop is a repeat candidate.

“It’s an enormous honor to just be on the College Football Hall of Fame ballot considering more than 5.4 million people have played college football and only 1,027 players have been inducted,” NFF President &amp; CEO Steve Hatchell said. “The Hall’s requirement of being a First Team All-American creates a much smaller pool of about 1,500 individuals who are even eligible. Being in today’s elite group means an individual is truly among the greatest to have ever played the game, and we look forward to announcing the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class Presented by ETT early next year.”

One of the most dynamic players in program history, Bishop played a major role in propelling the Wildcats to their first-ever No. 1 national ranking during the second of his two seasons at K-State (1997-1998). He still holds the K-State season passing efficiency record after a 159.6 rating in 1998 (164-of-295 for 2,844 yards and 23 TDs/4 INTs) in addition to ranking second in season total offense at 3,592 yards.

Bishop went 22-3 as a starter, including a 15-1 mark in Big 12 play, as his 88-percent winning clip is the best mark in school history. He was a two-time All-Big 12 performer, the 1997 Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year, winner of the 1998 Davey O’Brien Award and runner up for the Heisman Trophy that year.

Sproles, a 2003 First Team All-American and three-time All-Big 12 performer, held 28 school records at the time of graduation, 21 of which still stand 15 years after his playing days. The Olathe, Kansas, product rushed for 4,979 career yards, nearly 2,000 yards more than the player in second place. Sproles, finished fifth in the 2003 Heisman Trophy voting and third in the Associated Press Player of the Year voting that same season, was a three-time All-American, including earning first-team honors in 2003.

Sproles was selected in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers and ended up playing 15 years in the league prior to his retirement at the conclusion of last season. He accumulated 19,696 career all-purpose yards to rank fifth in NFL history, while he ranks seventh in career punt-return yards and eighth in kickoff-return yards. He played in three Pro Bowls and was named to seven All-Pro teams, including six first-team honors.

The ballot was emailed today to the more than 12,000 NFF members and current Hall of Famers whose votes will be tabulated and submitted to the NFF's Honors Courts, which will deliberate and select the class. The FBS Honors Court, chaired by NFF Board Member and College Football Hall of Famer Archie Griffin from Ohio State, and the Divisional Honors Court, chaired by former Marshall head coach, longtime athletics director and NFF Board Member Jack Lengyel, include an elite and geographically diverse pool of athletic administrators, Hall of Famers and members of the media.

The announcement of the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class Presented by ETT will be made in early 2021, with specific details to be announced in the future.

The 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class Presented by ETT will be officially inducted during the 64th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 7, 2021, at the New York Hilton Midtown. They will also be honored at their respective schools with an NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute, presented by Fidelity Investments, during the 2021 season.

<figure>
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 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A pair of K-State Football Ring of Honor members,&nbsp;Michael Bishop&nbsp;and&nbsp;Darren Sproles, were among 78 Football Bowl Subdivision players named to the 2021 ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, the National Football Foundation (NFF) announced today.Sproles is on the ballot for the first time, while Bishop is a repeat candidate.“It’s an enormous honor to just be on the College Football Hall of Fame ballot considering more than 5.4 million people have played college football and only 1,027 players have been inducted,” NFF President &amp; CEO Steve Hatchell said. “The Hall’s requirement of being a First Team All-American creates a much smaller pool of about 1,500 individuals who are even eligible. Being in today’s elite group means an individual is truly among the greatest to have ever played the game, and we look forward to announcing the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class Presented by ETT early next year.”One of the most dynamic players in program history, Bishop played a major role in propelling the Wildcats to their first-ever No. 1 national ranking during the second of his two seasons at K-State (1997-1998). He still holds the K-State season passing efficiency record after a 159.6 rating in 1998 (164-of-295 for 2,844 yards and 23 TDs/4 INTs) in addition to ranking second in season total offense at 3,592 yards.Bishop went 22-3 as a starter, including a 15-1 mark in Big 12 play, as his 88-percent winning clip is the best mark in school history. He was a two-time All-Big 12 performer, the 1997 Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year, winner of the 1998 Davey O’Brien Award and runner up for the Heisman Trophy that year.Sproles, a 2003 First Team All-American and three-time All-Big 12 performer, held 28 school records at the time of graduation, 21 of which still stand 15 years after his playing days. The Olathe, Kansas, product rushed for 4,979 career yards, nearly 2,000 yards more than the player in second place. Sproles, finished fifth in the 2003 Heisman Trophy voting and third in the Associated Press Player of the Year voting that same season, was a three-time All-American, including earning first-team honors in 2003.Sproles was selected in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers and ended up playing 15 years in the league prior to his retirement at the conclusion of last season. He accumulated 19,696 career all-purpose yards to rank fifth in NFL history, while he ranks seventh in career punt-return yards and eighth in kickoff-return yards. He played in three Pro Bowls and was named to seven All-Pro teams, including six first-team honors.The ballot was emailed today to the more than 12,000 NFF members and current Hall of Famers whose votes will be tabulated and submitted to the NFF's Honors Courts, which will deliberate and select the class. The FBS Honors Court, chaired by NFF Board Member and College Football Hall of Famer Archie Griffin from Ohio State, and the Divisional Honors Court, chaired by former Marshall head coach, longtime athletics director and NFF Board Member Jack Lengyel, include an elite and geographically diverse pool of athletic administrators, Hall of Famers and members of the media.The announcement of the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class Presented by ETT will be made in early 2021, with specific details to be announced in the future.The 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class Presented by ETT will be officially inducted during the 64th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 7, 2021, at the New York Hilton Midtown. They will also be honored at their respective schools with an NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute, presented by Fidelity Investments, during the 2021 season.– k-statesports.com –RYAN LACKEYAssistant Athletics Director for Communications

K-State's Bishop, Sproles on College Football Hall of Fame ballot

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals have long valued high school prospects, but a run of them have failed to pan out. So the past few drafts have been full of college pitchers, and that trend continued with the first-round selection of Texas A&amp;M standout Asa Lacy. 

Now, the Royals have a farm system stocked with pitchers that could hit the majors in just a couple of years, and could form the backbone for a team trying to return to the World Series after back-to-back appearances in 2014 and '15.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals have long valued high school prospects, but a run of them have failed to pan out. So the past few drafts have been full of college pitchers, and that trend continued with the first-round selection of Texas A&amp;M standout Asa Lacy. Now, the Royals have a farm system stocked with pitchers that could hit the majors in just a couple of years, and could form the backbone for a team trying to return to the World Series after back-to-back appearances in 2014 and '15.

Kansas City Royals are stocking the farm system with pitchers

NEW YORK (AP) — Baseball players told Major League Baseball additional talks to start the season during the coronavirus pandemic are futile and said owners should order a return to work, which likely would spark lengthy litigation and the sport’s return to labor wars. 

The union’s action could lead to a season of about 50 games rather than the 82 initially proposed by MLB. The Major League Baseball Players Association could respond by filing a grievance that would be heard by arbitrator Mark Irvings

NEW YORK (AP) — Baseball players told Major League Baseball additional talks to start the season during the coronavirus pandemic are futile and said owners should order a return to work, which likely would spark lengthy litigation and the sport’s return to labor wars. The union’s action could lead to a season of about 50 games rather than the 82 initially proposed by MLB. The Major League Baseball Players Association could respond by filing a grievance that would be heard by arbitrator Mark Irvings

Baseball players say talks futile, tell MLB to order return

USD 383 Manhattan / Ogden Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marvin Wade has issued a statement saying that in May, the Kansas State High School Activities Association established a summer conditioning start date of June 1. Based upon COVID-19 conditions within Riley County at that time, a start date of July 1 was set for USD 383. Given the accelerated pace at which other community venues (such as health clubs) are opening, plans have been implemented for&nbsp;Manhattan High School conditioning and summer workouts&nbsp;to begin on June 15 rather than July 1. Guidelines have already been approved for supervision, daily cleaning and weekly deep cleaning, and procedures to maintain social distancing with equipment being used this summer.

Arrangements are being made for&nbsp;Anthony Middle School and Eisenhower Middle School&nbsp;voluntary summer workouts/camps&nbsp;for basketball, football and volleyball. As was done with the high school, middle school COVID-19 precautions and guidelines have already been submitted and approved. More information will be provided from the middle schools in the near future as dates become finalized.

USD 383 Manhattan / Ogden Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marvin Wade has issued a statement saying that in May, the Kansas State High School Activities Association established a summer conditioning start date of June 1. Based upon COVID-19 conditions within Riley County at that time, a start date of July 1 was set for USD 383. Given the accelerated pace at which other community venues (such as health clubs) are opening, plans have been implemented for&nbsp;Manhattan High School conditioning and summer workouts&nbsp;to begin on June 15 rather than July 1. Guidelines have already been approved for supervision, daily cleaning and weekly deep cleaning, and procedures to maintain social distancing with equipment being used this summer.Arrangements are being made for&nbsp;Anthony Middle School and Eisenhower Middle School&nbsp;voluntary summer workouts/camps&nbsp;for basketball, football and volleyball. As was done with the high school, middle school COVID-19 precautions and guidelines have already been submitted and approved. More information will be provided from the middle schools in the near future as dates become finalized.

USD 383 Superintendent of Schools provides an update on summer conditioning for athletes

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics has confirmed that no student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing and the on-boarding process of approximately 90 student-athletes this week. In addition, one student-athlete did test positive for COVID-19 with antibody testing but is not considered acute. The department will continue PCR and antibody testing of student-athletes as they return to campus, and those results will be released upon completion. Should a student-athlete test positive, each will be medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer. These guidelines would also include quarantine for any individuals known to have been in contact with someone who tested positive.

KENNY LANNOU Executive Associate A.D. for Communications and Public Relations | K-State Athletics&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics has confirmed that no student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing and the on-boarding process of approximately 90 student-athletes this week. In addition, one student-athlete did test positive for COVID-19 with antibody testing but is not considered acute. The department will continue PCR and antibody testing of student-athletes as they return to campus, and those results will be released upon completion. Should a student-athlete test positive, each will be medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer. These guidelines would also include quarantine for any individuals known to have been in contact with someone who tested positive.KENNY LANNOU Executive Associate A.D. for Communications and Public Relations | K-State Athletics&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State Athletics Confirms Zero Active Positives for COVID-19 with PCR Testing as of June 11

Athletic administrators at schools with high ticket demand are making plans to determine who gets a seat if college football stadium capacities are reduced because of concerns about coronavirus. 

Nebraska has sold out every home game since 1962 and the season ticket renewal rate was 93% for this fall.  Officials say priority plans being considered take into account how much money the ticket holder donates and how long he or she has held tickets. 

Alabama and Ohio State are also assessing options.

Athletic administrators at schools with high ticket demand are making plans to determine who gets a seat if college football stadium capacities are reduced because of concerns about coronavirus. Nebraska has sold out every home game since 1962 and the season ticket renewal rate was 93% for this fall. Officials say priority plans being considered take into account how much money the ticket holder donates and how long he or she has held tickets. Alabama and Ohio State are also assessing options.

Seniority, generosity may decide who enters college football stadiums

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas announced late Friday it had reached a settlement with former football coach David Beaty, who had filed a lawsuit against the school alleging athletic department officials were trying to circumvent terms of his contract. 

The school agreed to pay $2.55 million to end all litigation and disputes.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas announced late Friday it had reached a settlement with former football coach David Beaty, who had filed a lawsuit against the school alleging athletic department officials were trying to circumvent terms of his contract. The school agreed to pay $2.55 million to end all litigation and disputes.

KU reaches settlement with former Jayhawk football coach

After Washburn University announced the closure of their campus on May 5th, due to health and safety concerns from COVID-19, the fate of the 47th&nbsp;Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl was unknown. 

Friday, the Kansas Shrine Bowl announced that they will stay in Topeka and play their game at Hummer Sports Complex.“While health and safety concerns are still a factor, we are excited to have anew venue and are increasingly hopeful we will be playing football on July 18th,”&nbsp;said B.J. Harris, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl.“Hummer Sports Complex&nbsp;is an amazing facility and their staff and support will bea tremendous asset.”

The new venue is a positive step, but the Kansas Shrine Bowl recognizes the challenges and changes that could affect the event.“All activities are being coordinated with assistance from the Shawnee County COVID-19 Task Force,” added Harris.“The health of our players, participants and fans is the top priority and we look forward to working with local officials to execute a safe event.”

The announcement of Hummer Sports Complex as the sight of the 2020 game is a great step forward, but the 47th annual Kansas Shrine Bowl will be anything but business as usual. The biggest change will be the cancellation of the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band.“After discussions with multiple high school and collegiate band directors it became evident that a successful band camp would not be possible with the expected limitations,” said Harris. “We are disappointed for our band kids, but we’re hopeful we can keep them engaged with our event and execute an alternative that could keep the band present at this year’s&nbsp;game.”

Dr. William Woodsworth, Director of Athletic Bands at Emporia State University and A.J. Pence, Band Director at Valley Falls High School, will be working to put together the 37th&nbsp;Annual Kansas Masonic All-State“Virtual”Band.“It is important to allow these fine students to share their talents and their passion, especially given these trying times,”said Dr. Woodsworth.“Ultimately, although it will never be able to replace an in-person performance, our purpose will still hold true. This summer’s performance of the 2020 KansasMasonic All-State “Virtual”&nbsp;Band will still be‘For the Kids’!”

Other changes to the 47th&nbsp;Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl will be the cancellation of the Participant Appreciation Banquet,Strong Legs Run 5K and hospital screening clinic. The Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp has been shortened to a two-day, commuter camp and will take place at a Topeka school district facility. The Kansas Shrine Bowl Parade, highs chool football combine, and Jr. All-Star Challenge are still being considered but could be altered or cancelled.

.East and West training camps are still set to be held in Ottawa and Salina. Further details will be provided to parents and players in the coming days.

After Washburn University announced the closure of their campus on May 5th, due to health and safety concerns from COVID-19, the fate of the 47th&nbsp;Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl was unknown. Friday, the Kansas Shrine Bowl announced that they will stay in Topeka and play their game at Hummer Sports Complex.“While health and safety concerns are still a factor, we are excited to have anew venue and are increasingly hopeful we will be playing football on July 18th,”&nbsp;said B.J. Harris, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl.“Hummer Sports Complex&nbsp;is an amazing facility and their staff and support will bea tremendous asset.”The new venue is a positive step, but the Kansas Shrine Bowl recognizes the challenges and changes that could affect the event.“All activities are being coordinated with assistance from the Shawnee County COVID-19 Task Force,” added Harris.“The health of our players, participants and fans is the top priority and we look forward to working with local officials to execute a safe event.”The announcement of Hummer Sports Complex as the sight of the 2020 game is a great step forward, but the 47th annual Kansas Shrine Bowl will be anything but business as usual. The biggest change will be the cancellation of the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band.“After discussions with multiple high school and collegiate band directors it became evident that a successful band camp would not be possible with the expected limitations,” said Harris. “We are disappointed for our band kids, but we’re hopeful we can keep them engaged with our event and execute an alternative that could keep the band present at this year’s&nbsp;game.”Dr. William Woodsworth, Director of Athletic Bands at Emporia State University and A.J. Pence, Band Director at Valley Falls High School, will be working to put together the 37th&nbsp;Annual Kansas Masonic All-State“Virtual”Band.“It is important to allow these fine students to share their talents and their passion, especially given these trying times,”said Dr. Woodsworth.“Ultimately, although it will never be able to replace an in-person performance, our purpose will still hold true. This summer’s performance of the 2020 KansasMasonic All-State “Virtual”&nbsp;Band will still be‘For the Kids’!”Other changes to the 47th&nbsp;Annual Kansas Shrine Bowl will be the cancellation of the Participant Appreciation Banquet,Strong Legs Run 5K and hospital screening clinic. The Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp has been shortened to a two-day, commuter camp and will take place at a Topeka school district facility. The Kansas Shrine Bowl Parade, highs chool football combine, and Jr. All-Star Challenge are still being considered but could be altered or cancelled.<figure>
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 </figure>.East and West training camps are still set to be held in Ottawa and Salina. Further details will be provided to parents and players in the coming days.

Shrine Bowl officials find new venue for 2020 football game

NFL coaches will be allowed to return beginning Friday to team facilities closed because of the coronavirus pandemic as the league continues preparation for training camps and its season. 

Commissioner Roger Goodell told the 32 clubs that coaching staffs may work from team complexes starting Friday. Previously, only up to 75 people per day could be at the facilities, with coaches and players not seeking treatment for injuries barred. All coaches will count toward the maximum number of club employees in the facility, but that number will be increased to 100. That's also subject to governmental regulations and implementation of health protocols developed by the NFL’s medical staff.

NFL coaches will be allowed to return beginning Friday to team facilities closed because of the coronavirus pandemic as the league continues preparation for training camps and its season. Commissioner Roger Goodell told the 32 clubs that coaching staffs may work from team complexes starting Friday. Previously, only up to 75 people per day could be at the facilities, with coaches and players not seeking treatment for injuries barred. All coaches will count toward the maximum number of club employees in the facility, but that number will be increased to 100. That's also subject to governmental regulations and implementation of health protocols developed by the NFL’s medical staff.