OC Soccer Club and other USL teams suspending games over coronavirus concerns

The OC Soccer Club plays its home games at the Orange County Great Park Stadium. (Photo Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone)

Orange County Soccer Club and the rest of the teams in the USL are suspending play for at least the next 30 days, according to a release issued Thursday by OSCC. The changes will result in the postponement of three OCSC home matches.

Here’s the statement from OCSC:

“In light of recent announcements from Governor Newsom and the United Soccer League, and in coordination with the City of Irvine and Orange County health agencies, the decision has been made to suspend upcoming Orange County SC home games for at least the next 30 days.  Our priority is the safety of our fans, players and staff so out of an abundance of caution we fully support these decisions which include matches originally scheduled for March 21, March 28 and April 4.

“Fans with tickets to Orange County SC home games during the hiatus will receive vouchers good for any regular-season game and fans who purchased tickets to the March 21^st Beerfest will be able to redeem those tickets for any future Beerfest events scheduled for July 25 and Oct. 17.

“We will continue to monitor this evolving situation closely to determine the next steps for future games and events. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans, guests, and partners during this unprecedented time.

“We will release more information and an updated schedule as it becomes available. The impact of COVID-19 impacts all of us in Orange County and we are committed to doing our part for our community.

“The health and safety of our fans, players and staff is our top priority so we fully support the decisions of California Governor Gavin Newsom and the USL Championship to suspend play for at least the next 30 days,” said Jeff Garner, President of Business Operations. “We will continue to work with local, state and federal health professionals, as well as the USL Championship, to resume play once we can ensure a safe environment for everyone.”