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Dear Stags Family,

Stags Compete. Stags Care. Stags Lead. Stags Grow. These cultural commitments make us who we are, and are more important now than ever before. While we are all heartbroken by the cancellation of athletic activity this spring, we know the best interests of the health and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and fans come above all else.

Stags — past, present, and future — while this is an unprecedented time for our department, our institution, and our country, we will endure and we will come out stronger, more resilient, and ready to compete.

In times of adversity, it is important to lean on the values that we stand for to guide us to higher ground. Even though we are not all together on campus, we remain a strong, unified, supportive community and — now more than ever — our culture commitments can serve as touchstones.

Stags Compete
Times such as these place athletics in its proper perspective, but this hiatus from practice and competition does not mean there are no relevant lessons to bring with us as we move forward. Remember the desire to compete that you feel right now. Carry those feelings with you when you return to competition and remember to cherish every game, every practice, and every moment you have with your teammates. Take nothing for granted and make sure that the next time your season ends, it is on your terms – no regrets, no wasted opportunities, and no unfinished business.

Stags Care
I urge you all to care for one another, care for your family and loved ones, and care for yourself. Stay in contact as a team and as fellow Stags, and support those who are in need in your personal, local, and global communities.

Stags Lead
Be an example for others. Do the right thing in the short term and the long term, even if that simply means staying home and abiding by the decisions made by the leadership of our University as well as your local and federal officials.

Stags Grow
Use this time to focus on bettering yourself. Concentrate on academics, remain committed to exercise and proper nutrition, and maintain a healthy state of mind. Be ready to rejoin your team, your campus, your academic schedule, and your community as a strong and well-rounded person.

It remains our responsibility and our privilege to serve our student-athletes, alumni, and other constituents with pride and enthusiasm. If you have any questions or concerns, please refer to our  and know that we are ready and willing to provide assistance to the best of our individual and collective abilities.

I wish all the best to you and your loved ones. May we all be safe and healthy in mind, in body, and in spirit.

Sincerely,

Paul Schlickmann, Director of Athletics
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