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SPORTS

Letter from Davidson College Athletic Director

by | Mar 16, 2020 | Sports

Chris Clunie, Davidson College Director of Athletics

Dear Wildcat Nation,

It still does not seem real. But it is. The abrupt end to all athletic competition due to concerns around the COVID-19 has left a gaping hole in each of us. However, this is a global pandemic and needs to be treated with the seriousness it deserves. I credit our institution for upholding our values and outlining key priorities that have guided our response including:

  • Safeguarding the health and well-being of the campus community, especially those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19
  • Respecting the guidance of public health officials
  • Ensuring that students can complete their academic work for the semester

Be safe, take the necessary precautions and be there for one another, now more than ever. And even though classes will now be remote, our commitment to the highest standards of excellence do not change – continue to win in the classroom. 

To our scholar-athletes: In this time of uncertainty, we know one thing for certain – no one is more prepared for this than you. Whether battling back from injury, striking out in the bottom of the 9th, crossing the line or touching the wall a millisecond too late, getting pinned in the final seconds of a match, missing a 20-foot putt, falling short by one goal, losing the 3rd set tiebreaker or missing a game-winner at the buzzer. No one has faced more challenges and had to deal with adversity like you have. Combine your athletic challenges with your real world, every day challenges and you quickly understand that you are built for this – resiliency is what we do. That being said, we as coaches and administration have been and will continue to be here for you, no matter what. 

To our seniors, especially those who did not have the opportunity to finish the right way – THANK YOU. As not just a former scholar-athlete but a former DAVIDSON scholar-athlete, I can only imagine how difficult this truly is. You feel cheated – no last ride, no senior day, no moment in the sun. But when you take a step back for a second, you slowly start to realize that you have given more to your team and to Davidson Athletics than we could ever ask for. Consistency. Accountability. Teamwork. Success. Integrity. Mentorship. Highs. Lows. Humor. Excellence. Creativity. Memories. Respect. Athletics Done Right. The list goes on and on and for that, we express our deepest gratitude. You may feel cheated now, but we do not. And in time, hopefully you won’t either. 

Sometimes crisis provides clarity. I know without a doubt that we will get through this together. Sometimes crisis provides perspective. Hopefully we will be better people because of this. Our mission will not change – we are still preparing for lives of leadership, service and disproportionate impact on the world. Trust me, the world needs Davidson scholar-athletes now more than ever. And remember – ‘Cats Are Always Wild.

Best,

Chris Clunie ’06
Director of Athletics
Davidson College

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