STARKVILLE — COVID-19’s effect on college sports continued Tuesday as the Southeastern Conference announced it is canceling all regular season competition for the 2019-20 athletic year.
The cancelation also includes spring football games and pro days.
“This is a difficult day for all of us, and I am especially disappointed for our student-athletes,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said in a news release. “The health and well-being of our entire conference community is an ongoing priority for the SEC as we continue to monitor developments and information about the COVID-19 virus.”
Beyond Tuesday’s news, team and individual practices, meetings and other organized gatherings — both voluntary and involuntary — will remain suspended through at least April 15.
“Mississippi State Athletics fully supports the SEC’s decision announced today,” MSU Athletic Director John Cohen added in an official statement. “While we are deeply disappointed for all our hard-working coaches, student-athletes, staff and devoted supporters, the top priority is everyone’s health and safety, and helping slow the spread of this virus.”
Ben Portnoy reports on Mississippi State sports for The Dispatch. Follow him on Twitter at @bportnoy15.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 37 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.