Chapman canceling athletic sporting events over concerns about coronavirus

Chapman University is canceling all athletic sporting events, including games and practices, until further notice, according to a release sent Wednesday by the university.

“While the California Public Health Department’s Guidance for Universities is not yet recommending this action, Chapman is anticipating the continued spread of COVID-19 and is taking precautions to keep campus safe,” according to the release.

Chapman officials earlier announced that all classes have moved to online formats and has requested that students return home if possible.

“The continuation of athletic events would prevent students from following the recommendation to leave campus, therefore all events were canceled,” the statement added.

The statement added that, “At this time, there are no suspected cases of COVID-19 at Chapman nor among students studying abroad. Orange County is considered to be at low risk for contagion. However, University leadership takes this action out of concern for the well-being of the entire campus community, said Chapman President Daniele C. Struppa.”

“This transition will not be easy but if we all work together with patience and flexibility, we will successfully move forward with the semester while reducing the health risks we are seeing around the world,” Struppa said.

Source: Chapman University sports information office