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Mar. 12, 2020 – Athletics competition suspended

Posted by on Thursday, March 12, 2020 in Community Messages.

Update: All Athletics events are suspended for the remainder of the spring season.

Dear Vanderbilt Community,

Due to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Southeastern Conference today canceled the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament in Nashville. In addition, and effective immediately, regular season competition for teams in all sports on SEC campuses, as well as SEC championship events, will be suspended until March 30.

As an institution and to protect the health and well-being of our student-athletes, fans and staff, Vanderbilt will enact this policy for in-season events for each of Vanderbilt’s varsity programs.

The announcement will impact schedules for Vanderbilt Athletics programs currently in season, including baseball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s tennis, and track and field. Events involving two Vanderbilt programs affiliated with other conferences—bowling (Southern Bowling League) and lacrosse (American Athletic Conference)—also will be suspended through March 30.

The decision comes just a day after the NCAA, SEC and other leagues across the country took several steps to limit the spread of COVID-19.

We know this is a challenging time for everyone, and we appreciate your continued support as we work to address this extraordinary public health issue. Our commitment to the safety and well-being of our entire community, including our outstanding student-athletes, dedicated staff and coaches, remains steadfast and is our top priority.

For information and updates related to the broad set of actions Vanderbilt University is taking to address COVID-19, please visit vu.edu/coronavirus.

Sincerely,

Susan R. Wente
Interim Chancellor and Provost

Candice Lee
Interim Vice Chancellor for Athletics and University Affairs and Interim Athletic Director