Many of the dedicated student athletes, coaches, and Bulldog sports fans are disappointed.

UMD athletics said it plans to conduct meaningful team athletic activity under the current circumstances and give student athletes the support they need.

UMD students and Bulldog sports fans say this is sad news but is not surprising, with several cancellations already happening. Austin Rush, a former UMD student who worked for the UMD athletic department in the Sports Information Department weighed in on the decision.

“My heart goes out to everybody in the athletic department that isn’t going to go out, especially seniors, who don’t get to go out and have their sendoff and go out the way that they want to,” said Rush.

Daniel Jacobsen, a former UMD student, is a big Bulldogs sports fan who likes attending the football and basketball games. He said he was sad about the news but felt it was the right move.

“I think it’s definitely the right choice. It’s not something you want to do if it’s not going to be safe for the students and for the fans so although it’s a big bummer I kind of understand where they’re coming from,” said Jacobsen.

Some of the sports affected include football, basketball, volleyball, cross country, and women’s soccer. UMD athletic director Josh Berlo said there is still a lot of hope and possibility for winter sports and are focusing on offering support to student athletes and finding ways to improve safety and health protocols.

Although it will be a quieter fall semester, Bulldog fans said they are loyal and are committed to their sports teams no matter what and will wait as needed to see them play again.