ST. PAUL, Minn. - It has been announced today that the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) Presidents' Council has voted to cancel the 2020 conference regular season and postseason championships for spring sports through the remainder of the academic year due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus). This decision will become effective immediately.
 
"Our primary concern is for the health and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and Hamline community members. This a difficult process and we will do our best to support everyone during this difficult and unprecedented time," said Hamline's Athletic Director, Jason Verdugo.
 
The MIAC office shared the following statement about the effects of the cancellation: "The MIAC shares in the disappointment that this difficult decision will bring to student-athletes, families, coaches, and fans; however, the uncertainty of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that for the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, athletic staff, and campus communities, it is no longer feasible for the conference athletic activities to continue at this time."
 
Hamline has two sports that participate outside of the MIAC, found in gymnastics and women's lacrosse.  The gymnastics season was set to end with the NCGA National Championship meet on March 28, but that has been canceled by the National Collegiate Gymnastics Association. At this time, the MWLC season for the Hamline lacrosse team has also been canceled.
 
As of March 12, the NCAA had canceled all winter and spring championships, affecting the seven Hamline athletes that were set to compete at the indoor track and field championships in North Carolina.
 
At this time the Hamline campus will remain open.
 
The university and athletic department are continuing to monitor the ever-evolving situation and will do its best to keep everyone updated.