Washington State Football Coach Nick Rolovich Opts Against Vaccine, Will Do Pac-12 Media Day Remotely

With the college football season right around the corner, we’re seeing all the conferences hold their popular media day, where coaches share their thoughts and feelings ahead of the season. While we’ve already had many coaches step to the podium, one Pac-12 coach will be participating remotely. Washington State’s Nick Rolovich will be doing his presser via Zoom.

Rolovich announced that he has decided not to take the COVID-19 vaccine. And therefore cannot be present during the media day.

[SideAction-ad-group]

“As the Pac-12 Conference has required that all in-person participants at next week’s Pac-12 Football Media Day be fully vaccinated, I will participate remotely and look forward to talking about our football team and the incredible young men in our program,” Rolovich said in a statement.

pic.twitter.com/WW1qNACPBc

— Nick Rolovich (@NickRolovich) July 21, 2021

He continued: “I have elected not to receive a COVID-19 vaccine for reasons which will remain private. While I have made my own decision, I respect that every individual — including our coaches, staff and student-athletes — can make his or her own decision regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. I will not comment further on my decision.”

Washington State athletic director Pat Chun said he has had multiple conversations with Nick Rolovich about the benefits of receiving the vaccine.

“While WSU has a vaccination mandate, there are policies and procedures for employees to follow who are not vaccinated. As a department, we will continue to educate our student-athletes, staff and coaches on the benefits of vaccinations and do all that we can to protect the health and safety of those in our charge,” Chun said via ESPN.

Last season, Nick Rolovich’s Washington State squad had two of their games canceled due to positive COVID tests. They ended the season 1-3, and will look to improve this season.

Welcome to the game outside the game! Follow us on our Sideaction Twitter handle, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest on sports and pop culture news across the web!