TOWSON, Md — The Colonial Athletic Association which includes Towson University announced Friday to suspend the Fall 2020 football season over COVID-19.
Towson Athletics also suspended the fall seasons for field hockey, volleyball, women’s cross country and women’s soccer.
Moving the 2020 football season to Spring of 2021 remains a possibility, but no decision has been made.
The Association gave members the option to pursue an independent football schedule in the Fall of 2020, however Towson says they've ruled that out.
“This decision was not made lightly. I know the impact this will have on our student-athletes and the greater Towson community," said Towson University Director of Athletics Tim Leonard. "It is going to be significant. But it became evident to us during weeks, months, of discussions with the other athletic directors both in the CAA as well as in this region that it would be nearly impossible to play a full fall sports season."
Despite the season being suspended, the teams are expected to begin practicing and training in phases. All student-athletes will be tested for COVID-19 and given a physical examination and mental health screening, according to the university.
Athletes are still scheduled to return with all other students for the fall academic semester beginning on August 24. The university previously announced a hybrid remodeling, where some classes will be held in-person and others virtually.
While the NCAA will make the decision if the move will impact a year of student-athlete eligibility, it will not affect their scholarship status.
