To the Editor:

Today's announcement concerning the cancellation of the winter sports seasons is something none of us involved with the SUNYAC or college athletics wished for. Not many things give me more joy than seeing our talented students-athletes compete, but given the circumstances, that's just not feasible.

A famous quote I have always loved is "sport is the most important of all of life's unimportant things." During these times, I think that's more appropriate than ever.

For all of us who follow the Potsdam Bears, sport is a huge part of our lives. Having said that, we mustn't forget that the health and safety of every person will always be of primary importance. It's the most important of all the important things.

To all of our student-athletes: I feel for you. I know this is tough to take and I know that in the short-term, nothing anyone can say or do will make this any easier. One thing I do want to say though, is thank you. Since coming back to campus in August, you've all been absolutely brilliant. You've been incredible role-models, upstanding citizens of our community and you've made me so proud to be part of your squad. In fact, all of our students deserve a huge round of applause for how they have handled and conducted themselves since coming back to Potsdam. I can't say enough about how much admiration I have for all of them. We have incredible people in every building, office and corner of this campus, and as I walk across or drive through it, I really do have this feeling that we are all on the same team.

I'd like to invite anyone who might have questions or concerns to reach out to me directly. I'm always happy to talk about anything Potsdam Bears related.

Mark Misiak

SUNY Potsdam Interim Director of Athletics