The Mountain West Conference announced today the postponement of all fall sports, including football.
Per the official release, the conference will look at the possibility of rescheduling football, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s volleyball, and women’s soccer, including playing out those sports in the spring.
“Nothing is more important than the health and well-being of our students, student-athletes, coaches, faculty, staff and overall communities,” said Dr. Mary Papazian, President at San José State University and Chair of the MW Board of Directors via the official release.
“Through the hard work of many over the past several months, the Conference made every effort to create an opportunity for our student-athletes to compete, and we empathize with the disappointment this creates for everyone associated with our programs. The best interests of our students and student-athletes remain our focus, and we will persist in our efforts to forge a viable and responsible path forward.”
The Danny Gonzales era of UNM Football will be on hold, at least until the spring of 2021. Gonzales, a native New Mexican who returned to his alma matter to take over the head coaching vacancy left by Bob Davie, looks to relieve a struggling program after spending time as the defensive coordinator for Arizona State.
“While we are disappointed for our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and fans, we understand that today’s decision made by the Mountain West Board of Directors has the best interest of all in mind. Lobo student-athletes and staff have been deliberate and strategic with each step towards returning to play,” said Director of Athletics Eddie Nuñez in an official statement from the school.
“Our student-athletes have done everything asked of them including quarantining when arriving, being tested for COVID-19, wearing masks and social distancing. Lobos have also been leaders in the community’s fight against COVID-19 by promoting and influencing safe practices, raising money for the Lobo food pantry, developing a virtual reading program for Albuquerque elementary school students, assisting with a PPE drive and feeding front line health care workers. I am extremely proud of their resiliency and dedication to their sport, this University and to the community. We will do everything possible to support them.”