Lakehead University in Thunder Bay will be without sports for the foreseeable future.
The Ontario University Association has cancelled all sanctioned sport programming and championships up until March 31, 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Deborah McLatchy is the Chair of the OUA Board of Directors and says “The health of our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, officials, and fans remains OUA’s number one priority. After significant consultation with our members and advisors, we have determined that OUA sport cannot be delivered prior to March 31. We recognize how disappointing this is to many, especially our student-athletes, but these are unprecedented times. We are committed to delivering OUA Sport once it is safe to do so.”
OUA President and CEO Gord Grace adds “While we would love nothing more than to see our student-athletes back on the field of play and participating in OUA-sanctioned competition during the 2nd Term, we are not yet at a place where that can occur safely. As disappointing as that reality is, I am confident that our participants will continue to demonstrate their resolve and determination through these exceptional circumstances and as we work toward an eventual safe return to competition.”
The decision coincides with a national move to cancel all winter championships.
U Sports Interim Chief Executive Officer Dick White says it’s not logistically possible for teams to be travelling across the country right now, adding student-athlete safety remains their top priority.
LU Athletics Director Tom Warden says it’s disappointing news but it’s important we continue to protect the community, the university and athletes.
In a release to students, athletes, coaches and the athletic community, Warden stated “please continue to stay strong and vigilant during these unprecedented and changing times and please take solace in knowing that we will maintain and support to you in an effort to meet our responsibilities with regard to your stewardship.”
The #OUA, under the direction of its Board of Directors, announces the cancellation of all OUA-sanctioned sport programming and championships up to March 31, 2021.
Visit our website for the full announcement and related FAQs.
➡️ https://t.co/NKCWeCh2Y1#WeAreONE pic.twitter.com/D7jMdtEF1v
— Ontario University Athletics (@OUAsport) October 15, 2020
