Photo courtesy of Alcorn State Athletics/Twitter
Alcorn State has officially opted out of the upcoming spring football season.
Citing concerns related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Braves announced this afternoon that they will not participate in the SWAC’s upcoming 6-game, conference-only schedule which was adopted after the league pushed its season back in the fall of 2020.
“Due to concerns and uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the upcoming spring football season, we have determined opting out is our best course of action,” Athletic Director Derek Horne said. “This is indeed a difficult decision, and I’m especially mindful this will be disappointing news to our student-athletes, along with our dedicated fans and supporters.
Alcorn State was set to begin the defense of its 2019 SWAC title against Alabama A&M on the 27th.
“The football program is our largest sport and involves over half our student-athletes on campus, and a decision of this magnitude is also made with the best interests of the community in mind,” Horne added. “We looked forward to defending our conference title; however, in these unprecedented times, the safety of the players, coaches, staff, and fans is our top priority.”
Head coach Fred McNair stated that the Braves will instead move forward with a traditional spring practice in preparation for the fall.
Jackson State is set to begin the ‘Coach Prime’ era on the 21st vs. Edward Waters and Mississippi Valley State opens against the Tigers on the 27th.
