Madison College Athletics has seen many changes since its start in 1965. 

This fall will see the biggest change that’s happened yet. There will be no fall sports. The National Junior College Athletic Association announced that all fall sports will be postponed until the spring. 

Teams will be allowed to practice. However, at Madison College, there will be no competitions … not even scrimmages. 

With the current state of the pandemic, athletes are putting a positive spin on the changes. 

“I’m excited to spend more time with the team. I think that it’s going to be a lot for practice to be three months of straight practice and not competition, but I think that it can be a good opportunity to better the skills for everybody and also to form really good team bonding and team chemistry,” said Olivia Marron, member of the basketball and volleyball team. 

Pre-season looks a little different this fall. Time that is usually set aside for open gyms and team bonding events is being used for online meetings and small group workouts. The men’s soccer team works out weekly while social distancing and the volleyball team meets via WebEx to bond as a team. 

Once the season starts in September, new pre-practice routines will be in place. Before every practice, athletes will get their temperatures checked and fill out a survey regarding their health. 

It’s uncertain whether athletes will be wearing masks during practice. A decision will be made by the end of August, according to Athletic Director Steve Hauser. 

It is likely that coaches will wear them. After team workouts, the Fitness Center will be closed for half an hour to be sanitized. 

Health is a priority. If anyone feels sick, they must stay home. Athletes are encouraged to avoid situations that put them at risk of getting sick. 

“I’m not afraid of what might happen but with the measurements we’re taking I think that we’ll be safe. Nothing will happen … I’m pretty sure,” said Sebas Verela of the men’s soccer team.