Duke Suspends Athletic Competitions

In light of the rapidly developing circumstances with regard to COVID-19, Duke University is immediately suspending all athletic competition for the foreseeable future, President Vincent E. Price announced on Thursday. This suspension covers all sports, all competition and all practices. 

“We are taking this action to protect the safety of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and others who are essential to these activities,” said Price.  “I know it is a great disappointment to our student-athletes and coaches, whose hard work and dedication to their sports and Duke is inspirational to so many, but we must first look out for their health and well-being.  This is clearly an unprecedented moment for our university, our region and the wider world. As we take steps to confront the spread of this virus, I’m grateful for the cooperation and support of the entire Duke community.”

Also today, the Atlantic Coast Conference cancelled the remainder of the men’s basketball tournament in Greensboro, NC.

“During this unpredictable time, Duke Athletics fully supports all measures to protect the health and welfare of the Duke family and beyond,” said Duke Vice President and Director of Athletics Kevin White.  “While we understand this may be daunting to many, please know that this decision is entirely in the best interest of all student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans.”

Added Duke Head Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Krzyzewski: “We emphatically support the decision made by Dr. Price today regarding the suspension of athletic competition at Duke. The welfare of our student-athletes, and all students at Duke, is paramount, and this decision reflects that institutional priority. Certainly, I want to applaud Dr. Price, who took a leadership role with his presidential peers and the Atlantic Coast Conference in arriving at this decision.”