The California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) officially announced on May 12 that competitions will not occur during the fall semester at Cal Poly Pomona due to the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, men and women’s soccer, men and women’s cross country, and volleyball will not play this season.
The CCAA decided on canceling the season for the safety of not only the players, but the entire coaching staff. This decision will affect seniors who might miss out on their final year playing for CPP. Luckily for athletes, the CCAA will allow its seniors the choice to extend their eligibility by one year.
The men’s cross-country team was aiming to start off their 2020 campaign just as strong as they finished last season with the team earning a trip to the NCAA. The team was devastated when they heard that their season was canceled
Senior runner Alejandro Mariscal took the news hard. “It was an utter heartbreak; we were ready to go for it all in our final year,” said Mariscal, mentioning that the news about the season was a huge blow to morale.
Junior runner Vincent Sarino said there is no definitive answer as to when the season may begin. “This is a decision that will take time and consideration for the safety of everyone involved,” Sarino added.
As for their counterparts, the women’s cross-country team were disappointed by the NCAA decision. They finished in third at the CCAA Championship and secured a spot in the NCAA Championships in 2019. The five returners were ready to expand on last year’s successful season. As for the team, there is no new information regarding a potential start for next spring.
“Nothing has been finalized by the CCAA or NCAA committees besides it being canceled this fall,” said junior runner Luz Garcia.
The men’s soccer team finished last season with a record of 13-5-3, and were gunning for a stronger season this year, but that has been placed on hold.
Sophomore center-back Cesar Ruvalcaba was caught by surprise of the season cancellation, “We knew the school was getting shut down, but hearing that all fall sports are canceled was a definitely a surprise to the guys.”
The women’s soccer team, led by head coach Jay Mason, were looking for a strong 2020 season after having an impressive 13-5-3 record in 2019. Mason was disappointed yet understanding of the season being canceled. “Similar to the athletes, the team was disappointed, but the safety and health of our players, coaching staff and everyone involved is our top priority,” said Mason.
As for a potential start for a season in the spring, CPP and the CCAA are working hard to create an alternative schedule and create new guidelines for players and coaching to follow. “The biggest challenge right now is the state due to the high number of cases. The CCAA are working hard to get the best decision possible, so we must remain productive, optimistic, and positive,” said Mason.