COVID-19 Updates

These are surreal times, aren't they?

The announcement yesterday of the cancelling of the Ivy League basketball tournaments and the restrictions on fan attendance and out-of-season practices due to the threat of COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) is something new for TigerBlog. He's been trying to think of things that compare, and nothing really leaps to mind.

The week after 9/11 was sort of similar, though that was a reaction to the horrific events of that day. There have also been pending major snowstorms, and possibly Superstorm Sandy, that have elements of the same kind of preparations that are being made now.

Still, nothing is close to the uncertainty of what's coming next. You can read what one expert says and then what another one says, and those two opinions will be 180 degrees from each other.

Princeton is one of many colleges and universities around the country that has altered its normal academic schedule in the wake of the uncertainty. As you have probably read, the University is moving to online classes after spring break next week, with a target of April 5 for a return to on-campus classes.

None of these are easy choices to make, and none of them are made lightly. 

There are so many moving parts as the situation changes regularly. The best thing to do is to continually check the webpage and social media for updates, both the athletic department and main University feeds.

For today, TigerBlog would like to help get the necessary information out to everyone. As of last night, here was the information that was being provided:

Princeton Athletics and Princeton University continue to actively engage in efforts to prepare for and mitigate the impacts from COVID-19 (commonly known as coronavirus). Our top priority is to support the health and well-being of our community.

Princeton University COVID-19 Information & Policies Resources

Future updates pertaining to Princeton Athletics events and competitions will be provided here as available.

2020 Ivy League Basketball Tournaments Update
On Tuesday, the Ivy League announced the cancellation of the 2020 Ivy League Basketball Tournaments which were to be hosted by Harvard. In addition, preliminary policies on postseason competition and limited attendance for on-campus events were announced.

Below are statements from Mitch Henderson, Princeton's Franklin C. Cappon-Edward C. Green '40 Head Coach of Men's Basketball, and Carla Berub, Head Coach of Women's Basketball.

Statement From Mitch Henderson
"We appreciate the Ivy League's concern for the health and safety of the teams, coaches and fans in regards to canceling the Ivy League Basketball Tournaments. I am extremely disappointed for our student-athletes who will not have the opportunity to continue their careers as Princeton Tigers. This is an emotional time for all involved with Princeton Men's Basketball, especially our seniors – Jose, Will and Richmond. They have been outstanding representatives of our program, I am heartbroken that they will not have another opportunity to compete on a national stage for our University."

Statement From Carla Berube
"We understand that the well-being and safety of the teams, coaches and fans was at the heart of the decision made to cancel the Ivy League Basketball Tournaments. At the same time, our team is disappointed to not have the opportunity to compete this weekend alongside our fellow competitors. We were looking forward to showcasing the high-quality caliber of play inside the Ivy League on both the women's and men's sides. I am especially saddened for my colleague, Mitch, and his team. We were all looking forward to a great weekend for everyone involved with Princeton Basketball."

All policies regarding athletics activities are subject to change based on the ongoing review of circumstances.  Further details regarding the impact of coronavirus on Ivy League campuses will continue to be shared through institutional websites.