Camosun College President Sherri Bell has issued the following statement today, after the Pacific Western Athletic Association (PACWEST) announced the cancellation the fall 2020 athletic season and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) announced the cancellation of the national championships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision impacts Camosun’s five varsity sport programs, which include men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball, and men’s golf:
“Due to health considerations and public health guidance, we’ve all had to make a lot of adjustments over the past four months. Cancelling our Chargers Athletics 2020 fall season is a very difficult and heart-wrenching decision.
“While it has been a challenging course of action for everyone, the health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans remain paramount. Our student-athletes are students first, and we will support them on every level possible. That includes caring for their health and wellbeing, as well as fulfilling any scholarship and financial award commitments made to them.
“Over the coming months, the college will continue to monitor COVID-19 recovery plans and follow guidance from the Provincial Health Officer and the B.C. government, as well as the PACWEST and CCAA, for a safe return to play in January.
“Our student-athletes, coaches and athletics staff are extremely passionate about what they do, and we will continue to work with them to ensure we get through this together. This decision was not taken lightly and we know it will have an enormous impact on them. They are the heart of our athletics program and we will continue to work toward achieving a safe return to play when the time is right.
“We understand the disappointment of not having a fall athletics season, and the college community shares in that sentiment. For students who are in need of support, Camosun offers services in counseling, advising and financial aid.
“Knowing that we are all facing many challenges right now, Camosun thanks all the college support services staff, community health professionals, essential services and all others who are working to protect and keep us safe and healthy. Thank you.”
What this means for Camosun Athletics
- Golf: The CCAA has cancelled all Fall Championships.
- Basketball and Volleyball: These sports, which traditionally span the fall and winter semesters, will commence conference play at earliest January 2021, with a decision on the start date being made this fall.
