The West Coast Conference, of which the University of San Diego is a member, has joined the growing number of NCAA organizations pushing back the start of sports seasons due to the novel coronavirus.

WCC fall sports programs will not
begin prior to September 24. For USD this impacts volleyball, men’s and women’s
soccer, and men’s and women’s cross country.

“This is the right call. The health
and safety of our scholar-athletes – as well as that of all coaches, staff,
officials and other members of the USD and WCC communities – drove this
decision and will remain the primary consideration in our decision-making as we
move forward,” said USD Director of Athletics Bill McGillis in a statement. “Our
focus should be on the reopening of our campuses and the delivery of an
outstanding education to our students. At a minimum, a delayed start to competition
will allow us nearly six full weeks following the start of classes on August 17
to assess and better understand the impact of COVID-19 on our campus.”

McGillis also notes that the
September 24 start date is not set in stone and could change again based on the
state of the pandemic. The Toreros football team plays in the Pioneer Football
League and is still (as of now) scheduled to open the season at U.C. Davis on
September 5.

The decision by the WCC also impacts
spring sports. Traditionally baseball, golf, tennis and other sports whose
regular seasons begin in January or February get to play a fall season that
does not count in the standings. This year “Fall Ball” will also not be able to
start prior to September 24.