Monmouth University Cancels Fall Sports Due To Coronavirus

WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ — Monmouth University and all other schools in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) agreed to cancel all fall sports.

The MAAC Council of Presidents made the decision as the coronavirus pandemic offers an uncertain future for upcoming college sports.

"The decision to cancel fall sports was not made easily, and it was discussed many times over the last few weeks and months," Monmouth President Dr. Patrick F. Leahy said in a statement. "My heart breaks for our student-athletes, their coaches, and their families. We will do everything possible to replace these lost competitive opportunities in the spring, if possible."

Monmouth and the MAAC are exploring options for play in the spring semester.

The Monmouth field hockey team plays in the America East Conference, while the football team participates in the Big South. Both conferences also decided to forgo the fall season.

Athletes will be permitted to train upon returning to campus as health protocols allow.

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