The Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) announced today that the eight MASCAC Presidents made the decision to cancel the "fall 2020 in spring" semester athletic conference competition, including all indoor and outdoor athletic conference competition. The decision ends the possibility of resuming the fall conference competition during the spring of 2021 but will allow fall and winter student-athletes training opportunities. While there will not be a conference schedule for MASCAC fall sports, member institutions will be allowed to schedule fall sport nonconference games this spring at their discretion.
The state universities will continue to provide fall and winter student-athletes with on-campus, in-person practices, conditioning and, training opportunities during the spring semester in order to support their physical and mental well-being. These practice and training opportunities will not use a year of NCAA Eligibility and will be done in compliance with campus, state and federal COVID-19 guidance and protocols.
"While the decision to move away from a plan for conference play for our fall teams this semester may be disappointing, we plan to offer in-person training and practice opportunities similar to a typical non-traditional season for these sports,鈥 said Nicolle Wood, director of athletics. 鈥淲e also will continue to work with our coaches and staff to offer meaningful engagement and support for all student-athletes in areas of academics, mental health, and personal development."
The MASCAC Presidents are hopeful that a spring sports season will occur and plan to announce their decision in February.