Oberlin, Ohio – Oberlin College, in conjunction with the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC), has announced the suspension of outside competition for the winter sports season. Today, the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) Presidents' Council announced the decision to suspend conference-sponsored play for winter sports for the 2020-21 academic year due to the continuing circumstances surrounding COVID-19. 

This decision impacts the sports of men's and women's basketball, men's and women's swimming and diving, and men's and women's indoor track field. 

"This is a difficult decision, but it is the right decision at this time," said President Carmen Twillie Ambar. "As someone who trains daily, I know how important athletics is to a person's well-being. Athletics will return to Oberlin when it is safe for everyone. Athletic competition is critical to the campus experience."

Oberlin remains committed to providing a meaningful experience for student-athletes. Practices, skill development, and strength and conditioning have already begun for these programs and will continue through the coming months. Athletes will also be engaged in leadership and professional development opportunities throughout the remainder of the year. While no in-person competition will take place, the College will hold virtual competitions in swimming and diving and is exploring options for track and field.

"Our number one priority remains the long-term health and safety of our entire campus community," said Director of Athletics Natalie Winkelfoos. "Unfortunately, there is still much uncertainty around the exposure to COVID-19, even with the vigilant oversight, testing, compliance, and safety protocols we have been following. I, along with our coaching staff and administration, remain committed to providing an engaging student-athlete on-campus experience."
 
The College appreciates the gravity of this decision and understands the disappointment among our scholar-athletes, their families, and our coaching staff.

"The athletics community is made up of some of the hardest working students on campus, and we know your competitive juices are flowing," Winkelfoos said. "However, it is important to note that winter sport student-athletes will not be charged with a season of use towards their eligibility."
 
The College will continue to explore all options for a safe return to intercollegiate competition, with the health and wellbeing of students, faculty, staff, and community as our utmost concern. As the pandemic evolves, the College will continue to monitor changing federal, state, and local guidance, and will consult with public health authorities and the NCAA as we plan for our eventual return to competition.