Republic FC player becomes first Sacramento pro athlete to contract coronavirus
Sacramento Republic FC has learned one of its players has tested positive for the coronavirus, the team announced Thursday.
Republic FC said the player was isolated at home and tested for the virus after exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, following proper protocols and the direction of team physicians and infectious disease experts from UC Davis Health. The team said the player remains in isolation at home and is “in good spirits” while being monitored by club medical staff.
He is the first known professional athlete in Sacramento to test positive for the coronavirus.
“Under the direction of our partners at UC Davis Health, we will continue to closely monitor the health of all players and staff and follow all protocols from government health agencies and our team medical professionals,” Republic FC said in a written statement. “The health and safety of our community, including players and staff, remain our highest priority during this pandemic. Republic FC is in constant communication with the CDC, United Soccer League (USL) and a COVID-19 task force comprised of officials at the U.S. Soccer Federation, Major League Soccer (MLS) and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).”
Republic FC, a USL soccer team that is preparing for its move to MLS in 2022, has postponed all matches until at least May 10 in accordance with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The team closed offices and training facilities March 13.
“The entire Republic FC team would like to wish all those who are battling this virus a speedy recovery,” the team said. “Additionally, we would like to thank the countless community leaders, advocates, and medical staff in our community and around the world on the front lines of this pandemic.”
USL President Jake Edwards issued a statement following Republic FC’s announcement.
“We’re very supportive of Sacramento Republic FC’s handling of their first positive COVID-19 test,” Edwards said. “As soon as symptoms consistent with the virus were displayed, the individual was immediately placed in self-quarantine and tested. The club followed the protocol and direction of team physicians at UC Davis Health and in alignment with local, state and national health authorities. The individual is now in isolation at home, receiving quality care and recovering in good spirits. We are appreciative of the quick actions taken by the club and their health partner in ensuring the best medical care possible. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to everyone across the country whose lives have been affected by this virus and as an organization we will continue to do our part to flatten the curve.”
