Dear Member Institutions,
The USCAA has continued to monitor the ever changing COVID-19 pandemic that has plagued our nation. First and foremost, the health and well-being of our student athletes has been at the forefront of our decision making throughout this process. Additionally, from the surveys completed by Athletic Directors and senior administrators, there is a growing concern by membership of being able to host athletic events safely and under current state and local guidelines. Therefore, the USCAA Board of Directors has suspended all Fall National Championships. The Board will continue to monitor the ongoing situation, with intentions of providing postseason opportunities for fall sports during the spring of 2021.
Additionally, the Board of Directors has eliminated restrictions for weeks of competition identified in USCAA Bylaw 19.1. The change will allow institutions to permit practice, training opportunities, and competitions that are within federal, state, and local regulations, without worrying about exceeding their maximum week limits (contest maximums have not been changed). The USCAA will post Return to Play guidelines that promote CDC guidelines and health standards that provide for a safe atmosphere for student-athletes and fans. Additionally, we will be reviewing our policy for student-athlete eligibility for the 2020-21 season of competition.
Please review the attached document, which outlines a revision to USCAA policies and lists projected timelines for USCAA National Championship tournaments. During this time, Athletic Directors may contact me directly with questions related to these changes.
We understand that these disturbances caused by COVID-19 have caused significant frustrations for our administrators, and even more so for student-athletes. These decisions have not been easy and are not made lightly. It is my personal belief that disappointment has a unique ability to generate hope, and with hope comes inspiration to achieve new levels of excellence. As we pause to heal from this disease and ensure the health of our people, may we seek to inspire those that we lead to work to become stronger students, athletes, and individuals.
The USCAA will continue to develop its membership services during this period and appreciates your continued support of this organization that provides opportunities for small college student-athletes across the country.
USCAA General Guidelines and Adjustments
Matthew Simms
USCAA Executive Director