This part of your post is key to me:
by The Oak (2020-08-11 11:54:43)

In reply to: Good questions  posted by dialadown


"I also believe that the protocols, the testing lab on campus, the involvement and escalation path of medical experts that have been set up all make the campus athletic environment safer than the alternative."

These kids are safer under college protocols than left to their own devices. They are not socially distancing in their private lives, and will not be.