Stephanie Logue

In regard to the COVID-19 virus pandemic, the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) prepares for the spring semester by tracking trends around the country. With their decision-making, they continue to prioritize the health and safety of the student athletes as well as campus communities. AMCC members will put the highest priority on efforts to move forward with the safe conduct of a regular-season schedule and sports conference championship. Such sports include men’s volleyball, softball, baseball, tennis for men and women, and men’s golf.

AMCC institutions have the autonomy to play soccer and women’s volleyball, normally considered fall sports, in the spring seasons. The conference will host a cross-country men’s and women’s championship meet on March 28, with the caveat that at least four programs must opt-in to participate.

The members of the Conference must consent to comply with NCAA recommendations on the safe conduct of all sports during the pandemic. The potential decisions of the Council of Presidents will continue to be guided by science and recommendations from state and local governments and health departments.

For Behrend, Behrend has announced that sports will return for the Spring 2021 season. However, while COVID-19 is still present, no fans will be allowed in the Junker Center. The good news is that anyone will be allowed to order cutouts and be there in spirit for a fee of $50. The process is simple: just upload your photo and not only it will be at the Junker Center, but also the soccer field, tennis courts, bowling alley, golf course, or the baseball/softball field. The proceeds help Penn State Behrend Athletics and the student-athletes by taking part and buying a cutout.

Taking part and showing spirit is huge for any sport. COVID-19 has exhausted the world and it needs to have a mental vacation. A first-year student explained how she did not want to start her college years in this direction: “Honestly, with college in general, I was hesitant [to apply] because of everything, but I got worried of waiting too long. With sports, I am sure by the time I am a senior it will be fine. I am not too worried with sports, but I am undecided of doing the cutout”.

A senior student expressed that it does not feel right ending her college experience like this, but she appreciates she had the opportunity to enjoy the sports. “When I think about the years of going to University Park and hanging out at Behrend with the sports it was a great experience. The school coming together is really uplifting and I feel bad for the students, especially freshmen who could not start their experience like I did.” She also stated she is hopeful for the future: “Who knows with this economy and where I will be, but I will try to make it to one of the games in the near future.” She said she is also unsure about buying a cutout because of her impending graduation.

These interviews showed the concern of students but as a Penn State student, we strive to see the positive side of everything.