This spring, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced his vision, “The Road Back: Restoring Economic Health Through Public Health,” to put the state on the road to recovery, with principles and key metrics to guide the process for lifting restrictions and restoring New Jersey’s economic health through public health. These principles comprise learning from the lessons of COVID-19 and preparing for the possibility of a resurgence.

To adhere to this vision for the state, and following the recommendations from the National Junior College Athletic Association Presidential Advisory Council and the NJCAA Board of Regents, the NJCAA recently announced an adjusted plan of action for the upcoming 2020-21 academic year, which includes postponing most fall athletic competition.

Therefore, in compliance with New Jersey’s coronavirus pandemic-related rules and regulations for institutions, in light of the NJCAA’s decision, and, most importantly, in the interest of the health and safety of our students and staff, Ocean County College has determined that the Fall 2020 semester sport programs – Soccer, Volleyball, Cross Country, and Tennis – will not take place at this time.

This decision was not made lightly, yet we must do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19. We will continue to monitor the situation for our Spring 2021 season and will provide updates as they are available. We will focus on academics and maintaining eligibility, and hope to give athletics the green light in the spring semester.

“As we move forward as an association,” NJCAA president Dr. Christopher Parker said in a statement, “we will continue to provide opportunities for our student-athletes, coaches, and all those involved with the NJCAA to be safe and successful.”

Dr. Gerald Racioppi
Vice President of Student Affairs