CEDAR FALLS — Seven University of Northern Iowa student-athletes that have been involved in voluntary workouts in UNI athletic facilities have tested positive for COVID-19. There has also been one staff member who tested positive. The positive tests come after over 150 student-athletes and staff were tested.

Voluntary workouts continue on campus, but the weight room was closed last week for a deep cleaning ahead of the Fourth of July holiday. UNI athletics is expected to reopen the weight room today.

“We feel like these positive tests are indicative that our screening protocols are working,” Director of Athletics David Harris said. “Because of the holiday weekend, we thought it would be best to extend our scheduled closure and thoroughly clean the weight room to make sure we are doing everything in our power to keep our student-athletes safe. We are acting out of an abundance of caution.”

All workouts on-campus have included thorough screening, social distancing, wearing face coverings and disinfecting all equipment used. Conditioning drills have taken place in large areas or outside when possible and all workouts are monitored by strength and conditioning and athletic training staff to ensure compliance to the procedures put in place.

All student-athletes that are tested are required to self-quarantine and are not allowed in UNI facilities while tests are pending. Any that test positive are required to quarantine for the recommended 14 days after the positive test.

UNI athletic facilities reopened for voluntary workouts on June 8, beginning with football. Other fall sports reopened on June 15.