‘Off and running.’ Athletes’ return at U of L starts with a test for everyone.

As the nation continues its slow re-awakening from the shutdown of pandemic, college sports in Kentucky are taking their turn this week.

More than 120 athletes, coaches and staff returned to the University of Louisville’s campus Monday as part of the first phase of re-starting the school’s athletics program.

On Tuesday morning, each of them underwent a test for COVID-19, the school said, even U of L’s athletics director.

Vince Tyra was among the first in line for the drive-up tests at Cardinal Stadium. Athletes representing football, men’s and women’s basketball and men’s and women’s swimming were among the first allowed back on campus.

Next week, those athletes can begin voluntary workouts. Later, additional athletes will return in phases.

The University of Kentucky has not yet announced a schedule for its re-opening for athletes, but that is expected soon.

“Our return to campus is off and running,” Tyra said. ”I think we need to set an example for our student-athletes and that was the reason I did this,” he said of his coronavirus test. “I wanted to feel what they’re going to feel when they go through this. Hopefully, they’ll follow the guidelines like we’re going to continue to educate them on and we’ll have a successful return to campus.”

During Louisville’s first phase, physical examinations are scheduled for Thursday. Voluntary workouts, not directed by coaching staffs, begin Monday. Four U of L facilities — the Schnellenberger Football Complex, Trager Center, Planet Fitness Kueber Center and Ralph Wright Natatorium — are open with limited occupancy during the first phase.

Sophomore forward Samuell Williamson and his men’s basketball teammates were among those tested Tuesday morning.

“I’m very excited about being back on campus, getting the ball rolling for our upcoming season and working out with the guys,” said Williamson. “I just got tested and it was a weird feeling, but I’m glad we’re taking the right precautions for our safety.”