UMass cancels its fall football season, the school announced Tuesday.
An FBS independent, UMass could try to play a season this spring, said athletic director Ryan Bamford.
“The ongoing challenges surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic posed too great a risk, and we came to the conclusion that trying to play a season could not have put the members of our program in the safest situation,” he said. Bamford in a statement.
“… These times have presented our widespread uncertainty, and we are disappointed for all members of our fall sports programs who do not have this opportunity to compete this fall. We remain hopeful and fully committed to pursuing a competitive scheme for ourselves. autumn sports in the spring semester of 2021. “
Tuesday’s decision to cancel the fall season follows a similar move by UConn, which last Wednesday became the first FBS program to announce its fall football season. UMass and UConn were set to open the season against each other on September 3rd.
UMass held a team meeting Tuesday morning to inform players of the decision, a source said. The Minutemen were set to open the September 12 season at home against Troy.
UMass coach Walt Bell said he was “absolutely heartbroken” for his players and fans, and he gave a statement on Twitter after the decision of the school.
“For the majority of the players and coaches in our program, this will be the first fall without football because they could run on two feet,” Bell said. “Our players have done an incredible job since Friday 13 March by fighting through unbelievable opposition. This group is resistance! Contrary to popular belief, this generation is struggling! Our players have fought the pandemic, a whole new academic environment, civil and social unrest, racism, insolubility of food, parents being fired and furloughed, and even harder for young people – the unknown.
“In this whole process, our players have been incredibly invested. Our UMass Football parents were also incredibly understanding and supportive. The future of UMass Football will be special.”
Bell said that, as of Monday, out of 733 tests for COVID-19, there was only one positive test – with the results of 125 tests taken Monday to determine yet.
Two FBS independents and two leagues, the Mid-American and Mountain West, have decided not to play football for fall football. Decisions could come later Tuesday from the Big Ten, Pac-12 and other conferences.
UMass joined FBS in 2012 as a member of the Mid-American Conference, but left the league after the 2015 season and became independent in football. Most of UMass’ teams compete in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
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