OUA 2nd Term Sport Announcement

Today at 2 pm, Ontario University Athletics (OUA), under the direction of its Board of Directors, announces the cancellation of all OUA-sanctioned sport programming and championships up to March 31st, 2021. This conclusion was based on provincial public health guidelines and with the health and well-being of all OUA participants at the forefront. Effective January 1, 2021, members are responsible for determining their Return to Train guidelines and involvement in member-driven competitions/exhibition games, as per their institution’s policies and within regional and provincial public health guidelines.

“The health of our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, officials, and fans remains OUA’s number one priority. After significant consultation with our members and advisors, we have determined that OUA sport cannot be delivered prior to March 31st. “ said Dr. Deborah McLatchy, Chair of the OUA Board of Directors. “We recognize how disappointing this is to many, especially our student-athletes, but these are unprecedented times.  We are committed to delivering OUA Sport once it is safe to do so.”

“While we would love nothing more than to see our student-athletes back on the field of play and participating in OUA-sanctioned competition during the 2nd Term, we are not yet at a place where that can occur safely.” Added Gord Grace, OUA President & CEO. “As disappointing as that reality is, I am confident that our participants will continue to demonstrate their resolve and determination through these exceptional circumstances and as we work toward an eventual safe return to competition.”

He continues to say that “A decision like this is never easy to make. To continue to uphold the health and safety of all participants, however, it remains a necessary step to take, and I commend the OUA Board of Directors for their work and decision-making throughout this process.”

Tom Warden, Lakehead Thunderwolves Athletic Director, issued the below letter to the Lakehead Athletics Community including Student Athletes, Coaches, and Staff.

The OUA has an FAQ page available at this link. Any questions regarding this release can be emailed to spinfo@lakeheadu.ca.

2020 10 15 LTR to athletics community