NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State University announced Monday that due to concerns about the health and well-being of its student-athletes, its football program is opting out of the spring competition schedule.
Officials say Spartans will move forward with a traditional spring practice campaign in March to prepare for the 2021 fall season.
NSU Athletics Director Melody Webb released the following statement:
"We are disappointed that we will not be able to compete this spring. Our priority is to always provide a high-quality, holistic academic and athletic experience for all student-athletes, and delivering this news to members of our football program was difficult. Football is a high-impact sport that creates numerous challenges in carrying out a season during this pandemic. After careful consideration with members of our coaching staff, University administration and medical personnel, the health, safety and well-being of our football student-athletes prevailed as the number one factor in this decision. “This decision will allow our young men to remain safe and prepare academically and athletically for the fall 2021 season.”
“This was a very difficult decision to make. We made the decision based on the safety and welfare of our team. With everything that is going on with the pandemic, we want to make sure that all of our decisions are student-athlete driven. We look forward to being able to compete in the MEAC next fall,” Head Football Coach Latrell Scott said.
