University officials say that after thorough consideration and the continuous spike in Covid-19 cases across the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation, the Virginia State University Department of Athletics has chosen to opt-out of the 2020-2021 basketball season.
“It is not a safe situation for our student-athletes and staff to be put in harm’s way,” said Head Women’s Basketball Coach James Hill, Jr. “The uncertainty and wide spread of Covid-19, along with the high-risk of conditioning injury, makes opting out the right decision.”
The men’s and women’s basketball student-athletes were projected to return to campus on December 1, to undergo Covid-19 testing and sports medicine education sessions prior to taking to the court for practice.
“It’s extremely tough, because were anticipating the season,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. “We understand the severity of the pandemic, so the safety of our guys comes first.”
The Trojans were anticipated to compete in a modified schedule that featured a 16-game conference schedule, including ten divisional and six cross-divisional contests.
“This was a difficult decision, however the VSU Athletics Admission has been consistent in our messaging; the student-athletes, coaches and staff continues to be our top priority,” said Associate VP for Intercollegiate Athletics Peggy Davis. “Their health, safety, and well-being are non-negotiable.”
VSU Athletics will continue to monitor the COVID-19 landscape, while following current federal, state, local, NCAA, and campus guidelines, to ensure that the safest practices and procedures are followed.
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