A lot has changed for Salisbury University sports teams since the move to online learning last spring.
Due to many cancellations and suspensions, members of the community will have to wait a little longer than expected to see their Sea Gulls back in action.
On March 10, SU informed members of the campus community that classes would be cancelled for the two days prior to spring break in order to allow students more time away from campus.
Three days later, the Capital Athletic Conference announced the cancellation of all conference competitions through the 2019-2020 academic year.
Classes remained online for the remainder of the spring semester following another statement from the university on March 19.
Over the summer, many schools and conferences across the country made the move to postpone fall sports in hopes to compete at some level in the spring.
Salisbury University released its decision to suspend all fall CAC-sponsored sports on July 21. This affected field hockey, men’s and women’s soccer, women’s volleyball and men’s and women’s cross country.
The New Jersey Athletic Conference suspended all fall competitions and championships on July 28, which postponed the season for Salisbury football.
The NCAA Division III Presidents Council announced the cancellation of all fall championships for the 2020-2021 academic year on Aug. 5. Fall championships were cancelled for Division II programs as well.
While SU fall sports teams are not competing, they are expected to still be able to hold practices provided they follow the recommended guidelines. Student-athletes have received some flexibility regarding eligibility during the fall semester.
Practicing with a sports team would typically cost an athlete a season of eligibility in Division III. This season, if the team is not competing, practicing will not trigger eligibility for any student-athletes on the team.
In addition, a statement released by the Division III Administrative Committee said that Division III athletes will only be charged with eligibility if their team competes in more than 50% of their maximum number of contests.
Salisbury University announced that all club sport competitions would be suspended alongside CAC varsity sports during the fall semester. These clubs will still be allowed to practice, provided that SU and local guidelines are followed.
As of Aug. 31, there has been no decision made about the status of winter or spring athletics.
To stay up to date on changes in Salisbury athletics during this time, visit https://www.suseagulls.com/general/2020-21/COVID_FAQ.
By NICK LEWIS
Sports editor
Featured photo: Sports Information image.
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