NACC optimistic about return to competition this fall

MILWAUKEE, Wis. -- Leadership of the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) today announced they expect schools to be able to safely offer athletic competition this fall.

The NACC's Council of Chief Executive Officers (institution presidents) met last week to discuss the fall semester sports plans and expressed optimism about their return. All conference institutions are currently planning for in-person learning.

The conference's directors of athletics meet weekly to discuss the return to athletic competition. The situation remains fluid as the institutions are spread across two states and multiple municipalities – each with their own set of guidelines. The NACC established a COVID-19 committee that consists of athletics directors, administrators, athletic trainers, and NACC staff to develop robust and clear guidelines for the upcoming fall season.

"We recognize the complexities of the situation but are committed to doing the hard work necessary to ensure a safe environment for our student-athletes to experience collegiate competition," said Dr. Eric Fulcomer, NACC president and president of Rockford University. "We are greatly optimistic about the fall semester – both for academics and sports."

The conference will continue to seek guidance from the NCAA as well as local, regional, state, and federal health officials and each institution's health professionals. The NACC will adjust as needed to meet the needs of students and institutions.