Photo by: Beverly Schaefer
Princeton Athletics COVID-19 Information (Updated 4/15)
March 10, 2020 | General
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 wellbeing of our community.
Princeton University COVID-19 Information & Policies Resources
Updates pertaining to Princeton Athletics events and competitions will be provided here as available.
April 15, 2020
"COVID-19 and student athletes: A letter from President Eisgruber"
April 9, 2020
Athletic Eligibility Update
Princeton regards its student-athletes first and foremost as students. This public health crisis has required all Princeton undergraduates to be asked to do an unexpected and difficult thing: to complete their semesters online, and, in the case of seniors, to forego experiences that they had anticipated and worked hard to achieve throughout their time here. Many members of the Class of 2020 may wish that they could have a senior spring in residence next year. We are, however, all in this together, and we need all Princeton students--laboratory scientists, performing artists, student-athletes, and others--to persist and graduate, even in these difficult circumstances. That is why we are fervently encouraging all of our students, athletes included, to continue on their current schedule for completion of their studies. For these reasons, Princeton has decided that it will not allow students who withdraw this spring to have an additional year of athletic eligibility at this University. The COVID-19 crisis has impacted all of us in ways we couldn't have imagined just weeks ago and we're all in this together. Understanding and very much appreciating how passionate our students are about wearing the Orange & Black and knowing how much this athletics experience means, we know that some will find this difficult decision deeply disappointing. We will continue to support our student-athletes in whatever way possible as they work to complete this semester and wherever their path takes them in life.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does this differ from the NCAA ruling on eligibility related to the cancellation of spring sports?
While the NCAA's decisions announced last week were the first steps in allowing institutions to consider scenarios wherein student-athletes could return for a 5th year of competition, the decision left significant hurdles for conferences and institutions throughout the country. After careful review, it was determined that the only way students could retain their 5th year of eligibility next year under our current academic policies and structure would be to withdraw from this current semester and return next spring with the necessary waivers. In order to do so, Princeton would have to approve both an Ivy League Fifth year Waiver and an NCAA Progress Toward Degree Waiver. Princeton has determined for the reasons noted above that it will not approve the required waivers.
Will other Ivy League Institutions be allowing students to utilize their 5th Year of Eligibility on their own campuses?
Each institution within the Ivy League has the discretion to grant students the necessary waivers for a 5th year of eligibility. As indicated in the Presidents' statement below, all eight institutions are opposed to students withdrawing from the spring 2020 term for the sole purpose of preserving athletics eligibility.
"Consistent with core long standing principles, Ivy League athletes are students first and foremost. No student-athlete should withdraw from the Spring 2020 term for the sole purpose of preserving athletics eligibility." - Ivy League Presidents
Please reference each institutions' public communication, where available, for information on their specific approach to eligibility.
Are there other ways beyond withdrawing now for Princeton students to get back their year of eligibility in the future?
Not at Princeton based on the current standard academic semester structure and leave policies of the University. Students may use their remaining year of NCAA eligibility at another non-Ivy institution once they have graduated. Students are directed to work with Kelly Widener in Athletics Compliance – kw2@princeton.edu - if they are interested in pursuing this option or to answer questions on any other possible options.
(3/13/20) Reactions To NCAA Canceling Remaining Spring And Winter Championships
Statement From Mollie Marcoux Samaan '91, Ford Family Director of Athletics
"This has been an extremely difficult week for those of us who are passionate about the value of collegiate athletics and who care so deeply for the student-athletes proudly representing our universities. The cancellation of winter and spring seasons and championships by universities, conferences and the NCAA are highly impactful decisions, which require tremendous thought, courage and leadership. We are grateful for President Eisgruber's principle-based, highly compassionate and thoughtful leadership.
Meeting with so many of our student-athletes over the past three days and feeling their raw emotion has reminded me of how truly special this place, our coaches and our students are. If this experience wasn't so important to them, it wouldn't hurt so much. I am confident that we will all grow and be better despite these challenging times and when it is appropriate for us to return to school and competition, our Princeton Athletics family will do so with renewed spirit and a continued commitment to excellence in all we do. Go Tigers!"
Letter From Princeton Athletics Head Coaches
This week has found communities far and wide in tumultuous times with information regarding the international public health crisis changing from moment to moment. Emotions have run high and uncertainty has been rampant, but together through it all, we have been reminded of the things that are most important.
When we signed on to work in athletics at Princeton, we did so knowing that we were joining a University which values leadership and puts our students first. Those values have been affirmed countless times this week as our Princeton family has navigated this unprecedented situation. This has been an emotional time for everyone - not just those in collegiate athletics, but across the world.
And though our hearts are broken for our student-athletes, especially our seniors, we are proud of our Princeton community and how they have responded to the difficult decisions being made. We are thankful for the leadership of President Eisgruber, our AD Mollie Marcoux Samaan and the Ivy League who continue to demonstrate a commitment first and foremost to the well-being of our student-athletes, remaining steadfast in their guiding principles. We are also extremely appreciative of everyone who is part of the Princeton Tigers family for their outpouring of support from near and far.
For most of us, these past few days have been spent with our colleagues and student-athletes, sharing emotions, providing support wherever we can. Through it all, our passion for each other and for our programs has been inspiring; leaving no doubt that we are all in this together. And together, we will continue to proudly represent Princeton and the Orange and Black!
Princeton Athletics Head Coaches
Chris Ayres, wrestling; Jim Barlow, men's soccer
Carla Berube, women's basketball; Scott Bradley, baseball
Matt Crispino, men's swimming & diving; Marty Crotty, men's lightweight rowing
Lori Dauphiny, women's open rowing; Erika DeSanty, women's golf
Sean Driscoll, women's soccer; Zoltan Dudas, fencing
Michelle Eisenreich, women's track and field; Derek Ellingson, women's water polo
Ron Fogarty, men's hockey; Laura Granville, women's tennis
Will Green, men's golf; Mitch Henderson, men's basketball
Greg Hughes, men's heavyweight rowing; Brad Hunt, women's cross country
Sabrina King, women's volleyball; Dustin Litvak, men's water polo
Bret Lundgaard, women's swimming & diving; Matt Madalon, men's lacrosse
Cara Morey, women's ice hockey; Billy Pate, men's tennis
Gail Ramsay, women's squash; Paul Rassam, women's lightweight rowing
Chris Sailer, women's lacrosse; Fred Samara, men's track and field
Sam Shweisky, men's volleyball; Bob Surace, football
Carla Tagliente, field hockey; Lisa Van Ackeren, softball
Jason Vigilante, men's cross country; Sean Wilkinson, men's squash
(3/12/20) The NCAA Cancels Remaining Spring and Winter Championships
(NCAA Release)
Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men's and women's 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.
Statement From Carla Berube, Head Coach of Women's Basketball
"With the magnitude of this worldwide issue, we understand the decision to cancel the NCAA Tournament in order to protect the teams, coaches and everyone involved. That being said, our team is sad to find out that our season is ending under these difficult circumstances. Bella and Taylor have been fantastic leaders and to see their careers at Princeton reach a conclusion like this is heartbreaking. It was truly a privilege to coach them. In the end, I am so proud of what our players and staff accomplished in achieving one of the greatest seasons in Ivy League history."
Statement From Cara Morey, Head Coach of Women's Ice Hockey
"This is devastating news for our players and our program as we were on a historic run. However, we understand that the health and safety of our players is paramount to championships. We can hold our heads high knowing that we gave everything we had. My heart breaks for our senior class, who are already all over our record books but could've done even more. They will go down as the first group to win an ECAC championship for Princeton and I know they will be so proud when they look back on the 2020 season. We want to thank our community and our fans for their support this year, and we encourage everyone to do all they can to stay safe and healthy as our world meets the challenge we have to face."
Statement From Chris Ayres, Head Coach of Wrestling
"These are unprecedented times, not only in college athletics but in our country and around the world. It is devastating to have a historic season for our program come to an end in this way, but I am proud of my team and confident we have set a new standard for Princeton Wrestling. I am grateful for everyone that has supported us, not only the Princeton University administration but of fans and families who have joined us along the way."
(3/11/20) Ivy League To Cancel All Athletic Events Through The Remainder Of The Spring
(Ivy League Release)
With further developments in the outbreak of COVID-19, the Ivy League Presidents are announcing their unanimous decision to cancel all spring athletics practice and competition through the remainder of the academic year.
Individual institutions will decide whether or not winter teams and student-athletes who have qualified for postseason play will participate.
In accordance with the guidance of public health and medical professionals, several Ivy League institutions have announced that students will not return to campus after spring break, and classes will be held virtually during the semester. Given this situation, it is not feasible for practice and competition to continue.
Ivy League Council of Presidents
Christina Paxson, Brown University
Lee Bollinger, Columbia University
Martha Pollack, Cornell University
Philip Hanlon, Dartmouth College
Lawrence Bacow, Harvard University
Amy Gutmann, University of Pennsylvania
Christopher Eisgruber, Princeton University
Peter Salovey, Yale University
Statement From Mollie Marcoux Samaan '91, Ford Family Director of Athletics
"Health and well-being is always our top priority. I know this decision was made by the University Presidents with tremendous thought and consideration for the seriousness of the situation. As a former student-athlete who cared passionately about competing for Princeton, I feel for each and every student-athlete across the Ivy League who is impacted by this decision. We are truly heartbroken for the student-athletes, coaches and staff who have proudly represented Princeton not only this year but over their careers, and who will not have the opportunity to do so this season."
(3/10/20) 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 Berube, Head Coach of Women's Basketball.
Statement From Mitch Henderson, Franklin C. Cappon-Edward C. Green '40 Head Coach of Men's Basketball
"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, Head Coach of Women's Basketball
"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.
Princeton University COVID-19 Information & Policies Resources
Updates pertaining to Princeton Athletics events and competitions will be provided here as available.
April 15, 2020
"COVID-19 and student athletes: A letter from President Eisgruber"
April 9, 2020
Athletic Eligibility Update
Princeton regards its student-athletes first and foremost as students. This public health crisis has required all Princeton undergraduates to be asked to do an unexpected and difficult thing: to complete their semesters online, and, in the case of seniors, to forego experiences that they had anticipated and worked hard to achieve throughout their time here. Many members of the Class of 2020 may wish that they could have a senior spring in residence next year. We are, however, all in this together, and we need all Princeton students--laboratory scientists, performing artists, student-athletes, and others--to persist and graduate, even in these difficult circumstances. That is why we are fervently encouraging all of our students, athletes included, to continue on their current schedule for completion of their studies. For these reasons, Princeton has decided that it will not allow students who withdraw this spring to have an additional year of athletic eligibility at this University. The COVID-19 crisis has impacted all of us in ways we couldn't have imagined just weeks ago and we're all in this together. Understanding and very much appreciating how passionate our students are about wearing the Orange & Black and knowing how much this athletics experience means, we know that some will find this difficult decision deeply disappointing. We will continue to support our student-athletes in whatever way possible as they work to complete this semester and wherever their path takes them in life.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does this differ from the NCAA ruling on eligibility related to the cancellation of spring sports?
While the NCAA's decisions announced last week were the first steps in allowing institutions to consider scenarios wherein student-athletes could return for a 5th year of competition, the decision left significant hurdles for conferences and institutions throughout the country. After careful review, it was determined that the only way students could retain their 5th year of eligibility next year under our current academic policies and structure would be to withdraw from this current semester and return next spring with the necessary waivers. In order to do so, Princeton would have to approve both an Ivy League Fifth year Waiver and an NCAA Progress Toward Degree Waiver. Princeton has determined for the reasons noted above that it will not approve the required waivers.
Will other Ivy League Institutions be allowing students to utilize their 5th Year of Eligibility on their own campuses?
Each institution within the Ivy League has the discretion to grant students the necessary waivers for a 5th year of eligibility. As indicated in the Presidents' statement below, all eight institutions are opposed to students withdrawing from the spring 2020 term for the sole purpose of preserving athletics eligibility.
"Consistent with core long standing principles, Ivy League athletes are students first and foremost. No student-athlete should withdraw from the Spring 2020 term for the sole purpose of preserving athletics eligibility." - Ivy League Presidents
Please reference each institutions' public communication, where available, for information on their specific approach to eligibility.
Are there other ways beyond withdrawing now for Princeton students to get back their year of eligibility in the future?
Not at Princeton based on the current standard academic semester structure and leave policies of the University. Students may use their remaining year of NCAA eligibility at another non-Ivy institution once they have graduated. Students are directed to work with Kelly Widener in Athletics Compliance – kw2@princeton.edu - if they are interested in pursuing this option or to answer questions on any other possible options.
(3/13/20) Reactions To NCAA Canceling Remaining Spring And Winter Championships
Statement From Mollie Marcoux Samaan '91, Ford Family Director of Athletics
"This has been an extremely difficult week for those of us who are passionate about the value of collegiate athletics and who care so deeply for the student-athletes proudly representing our universities. The cancellation of winter and spring seasons and championships by universities, conferences and the NCAA are highly impactful decisions, which require tremendous thought, courage and leadership. We are grateful for President Eisgruber's principle-based, highly compassionate and thoughtful leadership.
Meeting with so many of our student-athletes over the past three days and feeling their raw emotion has reminded me of how truly special this place, our coaches and our students are. If this experience wasn't so important to them, it wouldn't hurt so much. I am confident that we will all grow and be better despite these challenging times and when it is appropriate for us to return to school and competition, our Princeton Athletics family will do so with renewed spirit and a continued commitment to excellence in all we do. Go Tigers!"
Letter From Princeton Athletics Head Coaches
This week has found communities far and wide in tumultuous times with information regarding the international public health crisis changing from moment to moment. Emotions have run high and uncertainty has been rampant, but together through it all, we have been reminded of the things that are most important.
When we signed on to work in athletics at Princeton, we did so knowing that we were joining a University which values leadership and puts our students first. Those values have been affirmed countless times this week as our Princeton family has navigated this unprecedented situation. This has been an emotional time for everyone - not just those in collegiate athletics, but across the world.
And though our hearts are broken for our student-athletes, especially our seniors, we are proud of our Princeton community and how they have responded to the difficult decisions being made. We are thankful for the leadership of President Eisgruber, our AD Mollie Marcoux Samaan and the Ivy League who continue to demonstrate a commitment first and foremost to the well-being of our student-athletes, remaining steadfast in their guiding principles. We are also extremely appreciative of everyone who is part of the Princeton Tigers family for their outpouring of support from near and far.
For most of us, these past few days have been spent with our colleagues and student-athletes, sharing emotions, providing support wherever we can. Through it all, our passion for each other and for our programs has been inspiring; leaving no doubt that we are all in this together. And together, we will continue to proudly represent Princeton and the Orange and Black!
Princeton Athletics Head Coaches
Chris Ayres, wrestling; Jim Barlow, men's soccer
Carla Berube, women's basketball; Scott Bradley, baseball
Matt Crispino, men's swimming & diving; Marty Crotty, men's lightweight rowing
Lori Dauphiny, women's open rowing; Erika DeSanty, women's golf
Sean Driscoll, women's soccer; Zoltan Dudas, fencing
Michelle Eisenreich, women's track and field; Derek Ellingson, women's water polo
Ron Fogarty, men's hockey; Laura Granville, women's tennis
Will Green, men's golf; Mitch Henderson, men's basketball
Greg Hughes, men's heavyweight rowing; Brad Hunt, women's cross country
Sabrina King, women's volleyball; Dustin Litvak, men's water polo
Bret Lundgaard, women's swimming & diving; Matt Madalon, men's lacrosse
Cara Morey, women's ice hockey; Billy Pate, men's tennis
Gail Ramsay, women's squash; Paul Rassam, women's lightweight rowing
Chris Sailer, women's lacrosse; Fred Samara, men's track and field
Sam Shweisky, men's volleyball; Bob Surace, football
Carla Tagliente, field hockey; Lisa Van Ackeren, softball
Jason Vigilante, men's cross country; Sean Wilkinson, men's squash
(3/12/20) The NCAA Cancels Remaining Spring and Winter Championships
(NCAA Release)
Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men's and women's 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.
Statement From Carla Berube, Head Coach of Women's Basketball
"With the magnitude of this worldwide issue, we understand the decision to cancel the NCAA Tournament in order to protect the teams, coaches and everyone involved. That being said, our team is sad to find out that our season is ending under these difficult circumstances. Bella and Taylor have been fantastic leaders and to see their careers at Princeton reach a conclusion like this is heartbreaking. It was truly a privilege to coach them. In the end, I am so proud of what our players and staff accomplished in achieving one of the greatest seasons in Ivy League history."
Statement From Cara Morey, Head Coach of Women's Ice Hockey
"This is devastating news for our players and our program as we were on a historic run. However, we understand that the health and safety of our players is paramount to championships. We can hold our heads high knowing that we gave everything we had. My heart breaks for our senior class, who are already all over our record books but could've done even more. They will go down as the first group to win an ECAC championship for Princeton and I know they will be so proud when they look back on the 2020 season. We want to thank our community and our fans for their support this year, and we encourage everyone to do all they can to stay safe and healthy as our world meets the challenge we have to face."
Statement From Chris Ayres, Head Coach of Wrestling
"These are unprecedented times, not only in college athletics but in our country and around the world. It is devastating to have a historic season for our program come to an end in this way, but I am proud of my team and confident we have set a new standard for Princeton Wrestling. I am grateful for everyone that has supported us, not only the Princeton University administration but of fans and families who have joined us along the way."
(3/11/20) Ivy League To Cancel All Athletic Events Through The Remainder Of The Spring
(Ivy League Release)
With further developments in the outbreak of COVID-19, the Ivy League Presidents are announcing their unanimous decision to cancel all spring athletics practice and competition through the remainder of the academic year.
Individual institutions will decide whether or not winter teams and student-athletes who have qualified for postseason play will participate.
In accordance with the guidance of public health and medical professionals, several Ivy League institutions have announced that students will not return to campus after spring break, and classes will be held virtually during the semester. Given this situation, it is not feasible for practice and competition to continue.
Ivy League Council of Presidents
Christina Paxson, Brown University
Lee Bollinger, Columbia University
Martha Pollack, Cornell University
Philip Hanlon, Dartmouth College
Lawrence Bacow, Harvard University
Amy Gutmann, University of Pennsylvania
Christopher Eisgruber, Princeton University
Peter Salovey, Yale University
Statement From Mollie Marcoux Samaan '91, Ford Family Director of Athletics
"Health and well-being is always our top priority. I know this decision was made by the University Presidents with tremendous thought and consideration for the seriousness of the situation. As a former student-athlete who cared passionately about competing for Princeton, I feel for each and every student-athlete across the Ivy League who is impacted by this decision. We are truly heartbroken for the student-athletes, coaches and staff who have proudly represented Princeton not only this year but over their careers, and who will not have the opportunity to do so this season."
(3/10/20) 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 Berube, Head Coach of Women's Basketball.
Statement From Mitch Henderson, Franklin C. Cappon-Edward C. Green '40 Head Coach of Men's Basketball
"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, Head Coach of Women's Basketball
"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.
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