WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – The William & Mary women's basketball program has opted out and will not participate in the remainder of the 2020-21 season due to concerns over student-athlete health and well-being.
"This season presented extraordinary challenges – and I couldn't be prouder of the hard work and sacrifices by these student-athletes and the resiliency they displayed," head coach Ed Swansonsaid. "While the decision to opt out was a difficult one, it is also the right one. The health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes have always been the top priority. We will put all our resources into ensuring their overall well-being and work towards preparing for next fall."
The Tribe paused activities for the first time on Jan. 28 due to COVID-19 and had its last six games postponed because of the virus. In total, eight women's basketball games had been canceled or postponed due to COVID-19 in 2020-21. W&M finishes the season at 6-7 overall and 3-5 in the Colonial Athletic Association.
William & Mary Athletics will maintain its current competition schedules for all other varsity sports programs for the 2021 spring season and will continue to follow the guidance of the university's Public Health Advisory Team as well as university, local and state protocols.
Statement from William & Mary Interim Athletics Director, Jeremy Martin
"We respect and support the decision our student-athletes made this morning to discontinue the season, as we have respected all our programs' decisions on competing this academic year. Our biggest priority is the wellbeing of our student-athletes and staff as we seek to train and compete as safely and fiscally responsibly as possible this year. This decision does not impact the remainder of the department, as all programs will continue with the competitive schedules as planned, while adhering to all the applicable health and safety protocols."
