In a decision that will impact four fall sports at CWU, the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) announced that all athletics have been suspended through Nov. 30.

In a press release on July 17, the GNAC said their board had voted unanimously in favor of the decision due to the ongoing pandemic. The decision will impact CWU’s football, cross country, women’s soccer and women’s volleyball teams.

GNAC Commissioner Dave Haglund said in the press release that the decision was made with the safety of student-athletes in mind.

“This was not a decision taken lightly but one the Board believes is in the best interests of student-athletes and staff,” Haglund said. “There is no greater priority than the health and well-being of our student-athletes and this action is reflective of the GNAC’s commitment to this prevailing principle.”

The GNAC said it will “continue to monitor developments related to the pandemic” and decide by Oct. 15 on the status of athletics after Nov. 30.

In a separate release, CWU Athletics said “from now until Nov. 30, we are anticipating that our winter and spring sports will be able to practice and prepare for their seasons in a safe environment where safety protocols are in place, but not being allowed any competition. We will continue to work with Fall sports and preparing them for a possible return to play in the Spring.”

Those who have already purchased season tickets for fall athletics will have the option to donate the money to the CWU Athletic Department, use the money as a deposit for the 2021 season or request a refund. Anyone with questions regarding their tickets is asked to call 509-963-1429 or email [email protected].