CHATTANOOGA -- On Friday evening, Governor Bill Lee signed SB9014/HB9077, which precludes state entities from having mask or vaccine mandates unless certain exemptions are met.  As a result, masks are no longer required for spectators, staff and participants in athletics events at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.  
 
"Our fans, student-athletes and coaches have done an outstanding job following whatever protocols we have put in place throughout the COVID-19 pandemic," stated UTC Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Mark Wharton.  "Moving forward, we continue to welcome and encourage wearing face masks at our events, but it is no longer a requirement to attend."
 
The lifting of the mask mandate has an immediate impact on tonight's men's basketball game against Tennessee Tech in McKenzie Arena.  Tip-off against the Golden Eagles is set for 7:00 p.m. (E.D.T.) The next women's home game is Friday, Nov. 19, against Murray State at 7:00 p.m.
 
The only other sport currently in season is the Mocs' wrestling team.  Their next home event is the 2022 Southern Scuffle on Jan. 1-2 in McKenzie Arena.  Masks will also be optional at the next home dual on Feb. 4 against The Citadel in Maclellan Gym.