Albany State University suspends NCAA Competition for Fall 2020

 

MEMO: Special Message from the President  

FROM: Marion Ross Fedrick, President 

Tony Duckworth, Director of Athletics  

TO: ASU Community  

RE: Suspension of Fall 2020 Sports Programs 

DATE: Thursday, July 9, 2020  

The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) released a statement earlier today, canceling all fall sports programs for the remainder of 2020. Albany State University (ASU) will follow this decision as the health, safety, and well-being of our campus community, alumni, and supporters remain a top priority. 

"Suspending fall sports was a very tough decision. After many days of deliberation, we determined that we would support the SIAC's decision. We are committed to the health and safety of our students, coaches, and the campus community. This decision helps maintain a safe campus for our students, fans, and supporters during this time. We know that our student-athletes were looking forward to competing this fall, and we share in their disappointment. It is critical to continue evaluating these types of decisions that ultimately ensure our campus community's safety," said ASU President Marion Ross Fedrick. 

ASU will continue to strongly advocate to maintain NCAA championship opportunities for student-athletes, including fall sports during the 2020-21 academic year, and to recommend competition resume when it is safe and appropriate to do so for all.  

"Albany State University has been deliberate in our evaluation whether or not the Golden Rams can safely compete during the fall. In the end, our student-athletes' health and well-being drove this collective decision to suspend our fall sports. I am disappointed for our student-athletes and coaches, especially given their commitment and love for their respective sport. I know our alumni, fans, and community look forward to the Golden Rams returning to competition once health conditions improve. I encourage everyone to do your part in our battle with COVID-19 collectively," said ASU Director of Athletics, Tony Duckworth.