Dear Carson-Newman Eagle family: 

During this extraordinary time in our country, I want to express our hope that you, your family, friends and loved ones are healthy. As we all learn more about COVID-19 and the crisis that seems to be ever-changing, I have spent the last few days working closely with our athletics staff as we are all-consumed with the duties related to the well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff.  While it has been crazy, I am still reminded that God is in control.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

-Isaiah 41:10

In this time, we are grateful for the unwavering leadership of President Fowler, our Executive Crisis Management Team and the Core Operations & Crisis Management Team for their commitment to do everything within our power to protect the health and wellbeing of our entire student body, faculty, staff and the Carson-Newman community. 

As you are most likely aware, Carson-Newman Athletics has suspended all athletic activities for the remainder of the spring semester along with all other SAC teams and we will abide by NCAA regulations and recommendations as we move to the future.  

Our thoughts and prayers remain with our student-athletes, coaches and administrators who had invested so much of themselves and positioned our sport programs for what was sure to be a championship season.  We recognize them for all their hard work, determination and integrity in dealing with this agonizing circumstance.

We continue to focus our attention on supporting our 500 student-athletes who resumed the semester "online" as of Wednesday.  Most of our student-athletes chose to return home and are safely back now; but we still have a few, primarily international, student-athletes who remain on campus as our dorms and food services continue operations. Please know that our coaching staffs are continually communicating with our players and recruits alike. 

Right now, there seems to be more questions than answers as this crisis evolves.  While we follow the recommendations and mandates of public health and government authorities, I feel led to share my favorite Bible verse in hopes that you'll also feel God's peace and comfort in this trying time.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9  

Go Eagles!

Matthew Pope

Vice President & Director of Athletics