A Letter From Kent State AD Joel Nielsen
3/20/2020 5:07:00 PM | General
To our Golden Flashes Family-
As our fight song so aptly states: …we're all together, let's go forward, KSU!"
I couldn't think of a more appropriate way to venture into these unprecedented times. The challenges of COVID-19 (coronavirus) have impacted the world and, now as all of us are aware, are currently impacting the United States and its citizens. I write today to share the impact on our athletic program and our student-athletes, as well as share plans moving forward.
This situation is obviously fluid, with decisions being made daily at the Federal, State, Local and University levels. Beginning on Monday (March 16), the university is conducting classes by remote instruction for the remainder of the Spring 2020 semester click here. Also, the NCAA officially canceled all national championships through the end of the academic year. In conjunction, the Mid-American Conference (MAC) canceled all regular season and championship competitions, and non-traditional season competitions through the end of the year. Also, the MAC suspended all formal and organized practices until further notice click here.
The welfare of our student-athletes is our highest priority. Decisions made by our senior leadership team are guided by two principles: the health and safety of our student-athletes and, continued academic support and guidance. Our actions have been and will continue to be consistent with those of the university. To that point, one of the best practices is to minimize gatherings of people in one place. Thus, our practice, competitive, and strength and conditioning facilities will not be available for student-athlete use. This is consistent with other Ohio institutions. Please know, we have the finest academic support service area in the MAC, and they are working daily with our student-athletes (via email, video conferencing, phone, etc.) to maintain our academic success.
Our athletic offices are closed, but all of our staff members will be working remotely and available by email or phone. I plan to communicate on a weekly basis, if not more often, to our Flashes Community. So, even though we aren't "here", we're still here for you. If you have questions or topics you'd like for me to address, email me at athletics@kent.edu You'll also see new content on our website www.kentstatesports.com as well as our social media platforms starting next week. Check it out and let us know what you think.
We are also asking you to share some blue and gold spirit! Share some of your favorite memories, photo, videos and words of encouragement for our student-athletes and use the #GoFlashes in your social media posts. They will appear here.
Just like all of you reading this, we miss our games. But during these times, our games are insignificant compared to the battle we're facing. Our games will be back but take this time to reach out to family and friends, check up on teammates you may have lost touch with, or find a way to support our health professionals as they protect our health and safety.
It's also understandable that many of us have and will experience frustration, disappointment, apprehension, and anxiety. Please stay safe, be respectful and kind to others, and keep in contact with your family and friends. I'm already looking forward to making 2020-21 the best year ever!
Lastly, I'd like to commend our university leadership, led by President Diacon, for their preparation and guidance. Leadership during a crisis isn't easy, but with thoughtfulness, honesty, and transparency, Kent State will continue to thrive well into the future.
Go Flashes!
Joel
"Flashes take care of Flashes"
#Flashesforever
"Graduate Student-Athletes and Win Championships"
