Eastern Michigan University announced Saturday that it would be postponing all athletic activities in conjunction with the MAC conference’s decision to suspend all sports.
EMU President James M. Smith spoke on why the MAC Council of Presidents came to the decision to suspend activities.
The move has postponed all fall sports, including men’s and women’s cross country, football, men’s and women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, and field hockey.
The fall schedules for men’s and women’s golf, along with women’s tennis, and the previously postponed schedules for baseball and softball, have all been canceled.
“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,” Smith said. "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."
MAC Conference Commissioner Dr. John Steinbrecher stated, “I am certain that in the future when people look back at the year 2020, for intercollegiate athletics, it will be remembered as annus horribilis, which is Latin for 'horrible year.' I am a former student-athlete, and I make today's announcement in that respect alongside proudly serving as the commissioner of a Conference of 12 great institutions that represent thousands of student-athletes, and a fanbase that is passionate about MACtion.”
The Eastern Echo welcomes thoughtful discussion on all of our stories, but please keep comments civil and on-topic. Read our full guidelines here.