Statement from Morton College athletic director John Treiber on the National Junior College Athletic Association's recent decision by the Board of Regents for all 2020-21 NJCAA sport seasons (fall, winter, spring) not to count toward student-athlete eligibility. The eligibility relief is provided to all NJCAA student-athletes regardless of sport season participation in the 2020-21 academic year.  

"Morton College appreciates and applauds the NJCAA's leadership for its handling of a situation that has impacted each and every person worldwide," Treiber stated. "For our student-athletes, it has been the opportunity to compete and represent our school. The uncertainly of getting to compete and all that they have been asked to do before getting a chance to participate in the sport they love has been very challenging. 

"It is only fair that they do not lose a season of eligibility for something they have no control over. We can't give them a year back of their lives, but we're able to provide them with another season to compete.

"This year, our student-athletes in fall sports only got a partial experience with reduced schedules. Our cross country team only got to participate in three meets with no region or national competition due to travel limitations. Our men's golf program was limited to just conference competition and the Region IV meet."

Men's basketball, women's basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball all begin in late January. Men's and women's soccer commences in April.

"It's great to see the NJCAA following along with what the NCAA and NAIA have already done in allowing athletes another year of eligibility," Treiber added. "This will allow our student-athletes to participate in their sport next year without penalty and then be more likely to be recruited and have a chance to play at the next level the following year when those seniors leave their four-year programs."

Statement from NJCAA:
https://www.njcaa.org/general/2020-21/releases/20201022oueu7d