BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Kellogg Community College announced on Wednesday that it will opt out of formal conference and league competition in men’s basketball, women’s basketball and women’s volleyball for the rest of the 2020-21 season.
The decision comes in light of current restrictions and public health guidance regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release.
KCC considered a variety of factors, including the safety of athletes and coaches, restrictions on practices and bodily contact in current state emergency orders, current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and recommendations from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
The college’s three teams will not have a formal, competitive season, but if state orders and health guidance allow, KCC is planning to participate in the NJCAA’s Scrimmage/Alternate Season from April 12 to May 10.
Men’s and women’s bowling, baseball and women’s soccer competitions will continue as planned because of the non-contact nature of those sports.
“KCC cares deeply about its student athletes, which is why their health and safety are paramount,” said KCC President Adrien L. Bennings, a former professional track and field athlete. “KCC also cares about their growth and success on the court and on the field, which is why we struggled mightily with this decision to cancel competition for three of our teams.”
As of Wednesday morning, four other community colleges have announced they are canceling their basketball and/or volleyball seasons.
