Landmark Conference Shares Initial Plans for Return to Sport

TOWSON, Md. - The Landmark Conference leadership groups continue to meet diligently to discuss scheduling models and postseason opportunities for its league's student-athletes in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Goucher College fully supports this decision and intends to have athletic competition in the Spring of 2021. 

The safety of student-athletes, coaches, staff and the overall campus communities are the first priorities when planning a return to athletic activities and competition at any point during the 2020-21 academic year. The Landmark will sponsor conference play and championships if, and only if, a safe environment can be created by following all local and state requirements. Further, the conference will adhere to the NCAA's Sport Science Institute's guidelines and recommendations as return to play models are considered.

Goucher College plans to participate in intercollegiate sports in conjunction with the Landmark Conference in the Spring of 2021. It looks to participate in events for sports that traditionally conduct their seasons during the fall, winter and spring during the Spring of 2021. In addition, the Gophers equestrian team looks to participate in IHSA and ANRC events during the spring season. 

At present, the conference still plans to conduct athletic competition in conference-sponsored sports during the Spring of 2021. The primary focus of competition will be league play with a goal of playing a regular season schedule with an expanded postseason tournament in all team sports. For individual sports, the conference continues to explore opportunities for these Championships to be conducted safely and with additional precautions in place.

Tentative league schedules for men's and women's basketball along with Championship updates for swimming & diving and indoor track & field will be shared by December 4. Fall and Spring sport schedules will follow with the intent of all schedules being shared before the New Year. Any changes to the published dates and formats for women's golf, men's golf or outdoor track & field will also come at that time. 

Ultimately, it will be the decision of each member institution as to whether they sponsor athletic competition in a given sport this spring. That decision will be predicated on local and state health guidelines along with institutional policies.  The conference is prepared to adjust their schedules and plans accordingly, should any institutions decide it is not feasible to participate. 

Student-Athletes, Coaches and Administrators are encouraged to visit the Landmark's COVID-19 FAQ page for the latest updates and information.