NCAA Division III extends preseason on run-up to sports’ phased return
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In another step geared toward keeping the health and safety of student-athletes first, the NCAA Division III Administrative Committee announced it will lengthen the preseason for sports teams for 2020-21.
The move looks to provide a cushion of preparation time as college athletics begin to swing toward a measured return following the mass disruption caused by the spread of covid-19.
The first practice date for all Division III fall sports will be Aug. 10, or the first day of class — whichever comes first.
In addition, there will be an unlimited number of “administrative days” for schools to conduct non-athletics activities. At this time, schools will provide housing and meal expenses to student-athletes before the start of practices.
Previously, the start date was based on a team’s first game. Now, teams are unsure when their seasons will begin.
The NCAA’s Sport Science Institute plans to release phased guidelines for the return of players and coaches to campuses.
DIII Administrative Committee Recap: DIII increases the length of fall sports preseasons – https://t.co/ABV69mXKoH pic.twitter.com/I2qQuPZiDR
— NCAA Division III (@NCAADIII) June 11, 2020