The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) and Wilmington University have announced the suspension of all spring championships and non-championship competitions and travel for the remainder of the academic year due to the rapidly developing information and decisions related to COVID-19.
The President's Council approved the proposal put forth by Directors Council Executive Committee, which canceled athletic competitions for the remainder of the year, effective immediately. This includes the suspension of all countable athletically related activities for all sports until further notice. If any member institution returns to normal operation, teams may be permitted to conduct practicing using non-championship season hours/form, upon approval of the Directors Council.
For Wilmington, the decision affects all spring sports including baseball, men's golf, men's and women's lacrosse, softball, women's tennis, and men's and women's outdoor track & field. The suspension also limits the activity of fall sport programs engaged in spring competition or travel including men's and women's soccer and volleyball.
The action, also endorsed by league athletic administrators, was made with the well-being of student-athletes, institutional staff, fans, and officials in mind while considering the recent decisions made by member institutions as they continue to assess the impact of COVID-19. This action was also in response to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) decision to cancel all spring sport championships.
Wilmington University is reacting proactively and erring on the side of caution to protect the safety and well-being of our faculty, staff, and students. Beginning Monday, March 16, all in-person and hybrid classes will be moved to the online environment.
"This is a very difficult time, not only for our global, national, and local communities, but especially for our student-athletes, coaches, and staff", stated Dr. Stefanie Whitby, Director of Athletics and Assistant Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations. "We ask for your patience and understanding as we work through this together and continue to focus on the best interests of our student-athletes."
University administration will continue to monitor developments to determine any further steps.
UPDATE (3/13/20):
From the NCAA: Today, the Division II Administrative Committee implemented a recruiting dead period in all sports at least until April 15. The committee provided flexibility for schools to assist student-athletes with travel, in addition to the already permitted housing and meals. the committee granted an additional season of eligibilty to athletes in spring sports and waived sports sponsorship requirements for schools canceling spring seasons.