University of Connecticut Athletics
A Message From David Benedict
3/23/2020 1:23:00 PM | General
Dear UConn Nation:
Our mission has been, and always will be, to provide an exceptional academic and athletic experience for our student-athletes. Thankfully, wonderful supporters like you have fueled our ability to offer these opportunities for the deserving young men and women who wear the UConn uniform.
Many of you have reached out over the past week, asking how we are doing and inquiring about the well-being of our student-athletes amidst the global coronavirus pandemic. Certainly, it has been an extraordinarily unsettling time. Many of our student-athletes saw their athletic seasons abruptly come to an end. They understood why, but that didn't make it any less emotional to be denied the chance to compete in the sport you love, representing your university and its dedicated fans who bleed blue. Most of our 630 Huskies are now home and will remain home for the rest of the semester, with their families, taking classes online like their fellow UConn students. About 50 student-athletes, many from other countries, will remain on campus along with other UConn students who cannot go home for various reasons. While all students have been encouraged to leave, UConn is committed to providing students who must stay in Storrs with the support they need while prioritizing their health and well-being. Our coaches and staff, like the majority of others at the university, are currently telecommuting.
What is striking about this public health crisis is that we don't know when it will end. It's a situation none of us have encountered that will lead us down a short-term path of uncertainty. We all hope for a quick return to life as normal, but there is no clarity yet. What is certain, however, is that conquering this opponent will take all of us. In our business, we often hear coaches talk about teamwork, discipline, perseverance and determination. Flattening the curve on COVID-19 will require everyone's commitment to winning.
So much of what we do is built on relationships. We proudly call it the "UConn family." As we navigate these uncharted waters, we are thinking of you and your family. Your health and welfare are so important to us. Related to your participation with UConn Athletics and your positive impact upon our student-athletes, please know that we will be respectful and flexible related to Husky Athletic Fund gift deadlines and season ticket renewal dates. We are not actively soliciting at this time, but we are here for you should you need us. That's what family is all about.
Stay safe. Be well. Go Huskies!
Sincerely,
