EMU Today

This morning, I joined the other members of the Mid-American Conference Council of Presidents in unanimously deciding to postpone all fall 2020 Mid-American Conference athletics contests to spring 2021. It is an action in which I strongly concurred. 

The health and well-being of our students faculty and staff has been our top priority in all actions related to the return to campus this fall. Unlike classroom, residence hall and campus settings, the field of competition rarely allows for safe physical distancing and may complicate the use of masks or face coverings. These factors create a deep concern for student-athlete health and safety in the current pandemic. Over the past few weeks, we have heard clearly from our state’s health and medical experts indicating that this postponement was the only safe path forward. I know this news affects many of you deeply, and please know that I share in your disappointment.
 
Today's announcement postpones fall competition in conference-sponsored sports including men’s and women’s cross country, football, men’s and women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, and field hockey. Furthermore, it cancels the fall competitive schedules for men’s and women’s golf, along with women’s tennis, as well as fall competition for sports in their non-traditional segment, such as baseball.

The Mid-American Conference winter sports of swimming & diving, gymnastics, indoor track & field, and men’s and women’s basketball are not impacted by this decision.

Vice President and Director of Athletics Scott Wetherbeeagrees that while this is not the outcome anyone would have hoped for, it is the right one. He and the Athletics team are committed to fully supporting our student-athletes through this challenging time in their athletic and academic pursuits.

James Smith, Ph.D.