July 2, 2020 – Santa Fe College Administration approved a plan that will delay the start to the fall 2020 volleyball season.
Student-athletes were originally scheduled to return to campus Aug. 1, but due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases throughout the state of Florida and in Alachua County, the date was moved to August 21.
SF President Paul Broadie II, Ph.D., cited the need to follow federal, state and local health officials to determine when best to bring student-athletes back to campus. “The health and well-being of our students is paramount,” the president stated. “As we examine the rise in COVID-19 cases particularly among college-aged individuals, we feel it is prudent to take precautionary measures where necessary to protect our students.”
Although it’s not the ideal situation, last year’s team also dealt with delays – having a total of four games canceled in late August and early September because of Hurricane Dorian.
“The safety of the student-athletes, coaches and support staff is what is most important,” said SF Director of Athletics Jim Keites. “The change will disrupt the non-conference schedule some, but we feel we can make adjustments so that the season still holds conference, state and national championship aspirations.”
The Saints finished last season with a 5-1 record in conference play.
Saints head coach Nick Cheronis met with the team via Zoom Tuesday to deliver the news. “Starting a little late is not optimal for us, but as I have told the team since March, as long as the word ‘play’ is in there somewhere, then we will make all of the adjustments that we need to make. I think the important word here is ‘pandemic’, this isn’t just happening to us, but to people all over the world. I think we can handle a couple of weeks delay”.
Since the volleyball team has been away from the college during the pandemic, the players have participated in Food for the Frontline, delivering meals to first responders in their communities.
All updates about Saints volleyball and other SF athletics can be found at santafesaints.com.