Even though University of Mary Washington (UMW) students will return to campus on February 1, COVID-19 continues to impact all sectors of society. As a result, regrettably, UMW has decided to cancel winter and fall sport competitions for the remainder of the academic year. These teams will be permitted to organize practices within pre-determined segments as long as they adhere strictly to Mary Washington's MMDC protocols.
The UMW Athletic Department will continue to work with the Mary Washington COVID-19 Implementation Team, to prepare to begin spring and team sport practices on February 15, pending health conditions in the region, with a plan to approach game play on March 15. That said, the University will remain alert to the evolving circumstances of the virus and recognize that our region, the Commonwealth, and the nation are entering what may be the most challenging stage of the pandemic.
"For weeks, the Department of Athletics has been planning for a return to practice in a way that mitigates risk as part of the University's #ForwardUMW plan and under the guidelines of the NCAA and the Coast to Coast Conference," said Director of Athletics Patrick Catullo. "Unfortunately, as updated information has become available from our local public health and healthcare officials – along with the previous cancellation of fall and winter sport conference championships – it is clear that this is the most prudent way forward."
Catullo added that the focus will be on spring sports, which had to forego their season when the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly disrupted UMW in March of 2020. At the same time, he said, "we will continue to provide care and mentorship for all of our student-athletes."
With varsity sports being such a meaningful part of the student experience, Catullo said he realizes "these decisions are deeply disappointing and in no way a reflection upon our student-athletes."
Further announcements regarding a return to athletics competition will be made available via www.umweagles.com. Questions can be sent to athletics@umw.edu.