NNMC Athletic Director Ryan Cordova

SPORTS News:

ESPAÑOLA — Northern New Mexico College (NNMC) Athletic Director Ryan Cordova announced today that all sports, which include Men and Women’s Basketball, Men and Women’s Cross Country, Men and Women’s Golf and Cheer/Dance will be suspended for the 2020-2021 season.

“The health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and community are our priority at Northern,” Coach Cordova said. “The risk and uncertainty of COVID-19 has led to this decision.”

This announcement falls on the heels of the announcement from New Mexico Highlands University canceling their winter sports which included Men and Women’s Basketball, Wrestling and Volleyball for the 2020-2021 season.

NNMC has been in continued contact with the Governor’s office and Secretary of Higher Education Stephanie Rodriguez.

“All of the Athletic Directors around the state have been in close contact with the Secretary of Higher Education,” Cordova said. “The number one priority with all directors at this time is the health and safety of our students. We all encourage all New Mexico residents to do their part to help stop this virus in its tracks.”

Cordova informed NAIA President Jim Carr last week by email about NNMC’s decision to cancel winter sports for the 2020-2021 season. Northern joins more than 256 colleges and universities across the country who have suspended or canceled sports that have been affected by COVID-19 in some form.

Cordova said that he will continue to monitor the virus and consult with college and community leaders as well as health care professionals across New Mexico.

“We will be slow and steady regarding decisions,” Cordova said. “But we will ultimately make the health and safety of our students and community the priority.”