NJCAA cancels all spring sports activities

By Keith Gentry
March 19, 2020

Following recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Junior College Athletic Association has canceled all upcoming basketball championships and spring sports nationwide, effective immediately. "In light of the progressive evolvement of the COVID-19 situation, the NJCAA has decided to end all competition for the remainder of the academic year," stated Dr. Christopher Parker, NJCAA President & CEO through a statement released by the NJCAA. "As an association, the NJCAA exhausted all possible avenues to potentially postpone competition for both upcoming basketball championships and spring sport competition. We believe following the recommendations of the CDC is in the best interest of our member colleges and our student-athletes."

All student-athletes engaged in spring sports at Southwest this semester will retain a year of eligibility. Along with the cancellation of competition, on and off-campus recruiting for all sports is delayed until April 15, barring no further developments of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The safety of Southwest student-athletes is a priority and the Athletic Department encourages student-athletes to follow CDC safety guidelines and emerging NJCAA protocols,” Southwest Athletic Director Roger Ogden says. “Coaches and staff are prepared to help student-athletes transition to online classes as needed so they complete the semester and continue their academic pursuits.”

Student-athletes who have questions or concerns may contact Athletic Director Roger Ogden at rogden@southwest.tn.edu or 901-333-5145.