SUNYAC announced Monday that fall sports competition is suspended and winter sports competitions are delayed until Jan. 1, 2021. Photo courtesy of SUNY Fredonia Athletics

SYRACUSE — In response to ongoing health and safety concerns, the members of the State University of New York Athletic Conference are suspending fall sports competition.

In addition, the winter conference and nonconference schedules will be delayed until Jan. 1, 2021.

The decision was made by the SUNYAC campus presidents in consultation with the SUNYAC Board of Directors on Monday. The SUNYAC Board of Directors is composed of the 10 directors of athletics from each member institution.

“The action was unanimously agreed upon by the SUNYAC campus presidents in the interest of safety,” said Dr. Dennis Hefner, Fredonia State’s interim president. “We regret the impact this decision will have on Division III student-athletes, who compete for the love of their sport.”

“It’s unfortunate,” added Jerry Fisk, Fredonia state director of athletics, “that we reached the point that this decision was inevitable. I, like our coaches and student-athletes, look forward to a return to competition as soon the health and safety issues are resolved.”

Plattsburgh State Director of Athletics Mike Howard, the chair of the SUNYAC governing body, said SUNYAC coaches and student-athletes are prepared to make the best of the situation.

“Despite the absence of competition this fall, I am confident that we will be able to continue providing our student-athletes with an engaging athletic experience that includes a great opportunity for personal skill development and growth through small group workouts,” Howard said. “Our coaches are some of the best in the business at seizing opportunity when options seem limited and this certainly will be no exception as they continue recruiting, mentoring, and engaging safely in community service.”

The SUNYAC will continue to explore all options for a safe return to intercollegiate athletics.

“As a former student-athlete, I empathize with the disappointment our students must feel not being able to compete this fall,” said Erik Bitterbaum, chair of the SUNYAC presidents. “But our priority is the health and safety of everyone involved with intercollegiate athletics, and we will continue to plan for a safe return to competition at the appropriate time.”