While the NCAA wrestling championships will be held this spring amidst the ongoing battle against COVID-19 (Coronavirus), it will be without the usual sellout crowds. After consultation with its advisory panel, the NCAA made the decision to hold all winter championships, including Men’s basketball, in front of only “essential staff and limited family attendance”. With Minneapolis as this year’s NCAA wrestling host, fans from across the state of North Dakota planned on attending the event; many for the first time. Details have not yet emerged as to what that means, but NDwrestle will update with pertinent information as it is made available. The following is the full statement from NCAA President Mark Emmert:
The NCAA continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 in consultation with public health officials and our COVID-19 advisory panel. Based on their advice and my discussions with the NCAA Board of Governors, I have made the decision to conduct our upcoming championship events, including the Division I men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, with only essential staff and limited family attendance. While I understand how disappointing this is for all fans of our sports, my decision is based on the current understanding of how COVID-19 is progressing in the United States. This decision is in the best interest of public health, including that of coaches, administrators, fans and, most importantly, our student-athletes. We recognize the opportunity to compete in an NCAA national championship is an experience of a lifetime for the students and their families. Today, we will move forward and conduct championships consistent with the current information and will continue to monitor and make adjustments as needed.
ndwrestle.com 