Crean Lutheran High School sports events suspended over concerns about coronavirus

Athletic Director Eric Olson (far right) and Crean Lutheran students stand for the National Anthem during a basketball game. (File photo: Fernando M. Donado, For OC Sports Zone)

Crean Lutheran High School is suspending all athletics beginning Monday, March 16, in response to the coronavirus crisis, according to Athletic Director Eric Olson. Officials did not say when sports might resume.

“During this time of uncertainty we have chosen this course of action in order to help protect our Saints community as well as all of our surrounding communities,” Olson told OC Sports Zone Friday.

“It is our prayer that this  proactive, precautionary approach will help support a quicker resolution, allowing our student athletes to return to spring competition, finish the season and enjoy possible post season CIF competition.”

A memo from Olson made available to OC Sports Zone was sent to parents which further explained the policy:

“….I  have continued to stay in contact with local athletic directors at both public and private schools. In an abundance of care, the majority of Empire League schools, including Valencia, Cypress, Pacifica, and Kennedy, have suspended their athletic operations until further notice. While we still held hope last night for the continuance of athletics, given the lower numbers in spring sports, it is now necessary to take further precautions. These precautions are not intended to cause concern or panic; rather, they are intended to slow the spread of COVID-19 and represent a partnership with our local and global community.

“During this precautionary time, and beginning March 16, 2020, Crean Lutheran Athletic operations are suspended, including practices, games, tournaments, winter sports banquets, team meetings, and strength and conditioning. Each Friday, beginning March 20, we will email an update regarding the status of this measure.

“As a reminder, no cases of COVID-19 have been reported or confirmed at Crean Lutheran; however, as a further step in addressing student health and wellness, and beginning this evening, a professional cleaning company will begin deep cleaning the entire campus, including athletic facilities such as the locker rooms, the team room, the training room, and the strength and conditioning center.

“It is our prayer that these proactive and precautionary measures will support a quicker resolution, thus allowing our student-athletes to have the opportunity to return and finish spring season, and possible post-season, athletic contests. Thank you for your partnership and prayers as we wrestle with this new and unexpected reality.”