MANKATO, Minn. – Effective immediately, Bethany Lutheran College has canceled all athletic practices, competitions, and non-traditional seasons for the remainder of the 2019-20 academic year in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
 
On Thursday, March 12, the NCAA canceled all winter and spring championships for all three divisions. On Monday, March 16, the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Council of Presidents and Chancellors voted to cancel all remaining regular season conference contests and postseason tournament and championship events for the 2020 spring sports.
 
For those athletes whose seasons were cut short, the NCAA will provide a waiver to gain an extra year of eligibility. Student-athletes may contact their coach for more information about the new NCAA policy. 
 
"As we have continued to monitor the daily COVID-19 updates from federal, state, and local sources, we have decided to cancel any remaining athletic activities for the 2019-20 academic year," said Don Westphal, Bethany's Director of Athletics. "Without question, this was an extremely difficult decision for myself and other college administrators. The dedication and commitment our student-athletes demonstrate representing Bethany has always been a vital aspect of their higher education experience and our mission. However, the health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, and all who support their efforts have led us to take this action."
 
Click here to visit Bethany Lutheran's COVID-19 page.

Click here to visit the UMAC's COVID-19 page.