TAMPA, Fla. – USL League One announced Friday its board of governors voted in favor of framework for returning to play this year, with a provisional start date set for July 18.

The league suspended play in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While additional information on competition format, scheduling, broadcast and other important details will be made available in the coming weeks, it’s important to note that the league’s return to play will be conducted in strict alignment with all local and state public health guidelines.

The US also has remained in regular dialogue with the the USL Players Association on all matters concerning player health and wellness protocols.

“To League One communities across the country, thank you for your continued devotion to your clubs during this process.” a league statement said. “We look forward to being back on the field with you all soon.”

Front Row Soccer editor Michael Lewis has covered 13 World Cups (eight men, five women), seven Olympics and 25 MLS Cups. He has written about New York City FC, New York Cosmos, the New York Red Bulls and both U.S. national teams for Newsday and has penned a soccer history column for the Guardian.com. Lewis, who has been honored by the Press Club of Long Island and National Soccer Coaches Association of America, is the former editor of BigAppleSoccer.com. He has written seven books about the beautiful game and has published ALIVE AND KICKING The incredible but true story of the Rochester Lancers. It is available at Amazon.com.