By Joe Hiti

The Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference has canceled its spring sports season amidst the global coronavirus pandemic.

Bethel University has already put a plan in place to combat the disease post-spring break by adding another week and giving teachers time to prep for the possibility of moving classes online.

For Bethel’s sports teams, there will be no more in conference athletic activities.

“The MIAC shares in the disappointment that this difficult decision will bring to student-athletes, families, coaches, and fans,” a MIAC press release stated, “however, the uncertainty of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that for the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, athletic staff, and campus communities, it is no longer feasible for conference athletic activities to continue at this time.”

According to the MIAC’s press release, the decision was made based on the NCAA canceling its spring championships and other leagues pulling the plug on their spring seasons.

The press release also mentions that each institution will be able to decide whether or not they would like to continue with non-conference play.

The Clarion has reached out to several athletes and coaches from Bethel sports and is waiting to hear back. This story will be updated with their comments.