SYRACUSE — State University of New York Chancellor Dr. Jim Malatras has requested that the State University of New York Athletic Conference develop a plan, for the presidents’ consideration, to resume spring intercollegiate athletic competition safely.

In a press release today from the SUNYAC office, it was noted that the plans for spring sports will be expected to meet the guidance provided by the NCAA, the New York State Department of Health, local and regional authorities, and the SUNY system. The trajectory of the pandemic on the campuses during the early weeks of the semester will also factor into the resumption of spring sports.

“SUNY student athletes have done a tremendous job in such uncertain times. Recently, other collegiate athletic competition in New York has demonstrated that sports can safely operate under enhanced protocols. I have requested the State University of New York Athletic Conference to develop a plan for the SUNY campus presidents’ consideration to allow spring sports competition,” Malatras said. “Our students within SUNYAC and the NCAA Division III level want to play sports just as much as anyone, and with strict safety standards and leadership from our athletic directors and presidents at those campuses, a comprehensive plan could afford them the opportunity. I thank our SUNY presidents in the conference for their leadership and look forward to the SUNYAC plan.”

SUNYAC sponsors NCAA Division III sports in men’s and women’s track & field, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s lacrosse, and women’s tennis.

Planning for non-SUNYAC spring sports will be led by athletic directors and presidents at those campuses.