Stanford invites football players back to campus

Stanford announced Wednesday that it will invite football players back to campus, effective immediately, under protocols designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

In a news release, the school said that any studentathletes who opt not to take part in athletic activities because of the pandemic will not be penalized.

Stanford said its returntoplay plan has been made in collaboration with its School of Medicine and Stanford Health Care, adhering to guidelines established by — among others — Santa Clara County, the NCAA and the Pac12 COVID19 Medical Advisory Committee. From the news release: “The returntoplay plan is based on COVID19 testing, screening, physical distancing and the use of personal protective equipment. Each studentathlete will be tested upon arrival and regularly throughout the season. Each day, studentathletes will report their current health status, have their temperature checked and be provided additional personal protective equipment as needed.”

On June 17, Stanford began allowing studentathletes to return to campus. As of Tuesday, according to the news release, 53 studentathletes had been cleared to take part in oncampus voluntary activities.

Stanford is scheduled to open its football season at home against William and Mary on Sept. 5.

Steve Kroner is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: skroner@ sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SteveKronerSF