HUNTSVILLE | On Wednesday the NCAA announced in the following statement changes that are forthcoming to its winter championships due to concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus.
 
"The NCAA continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 in consultation with public health officials and our COVID-19 advisory panel. Based on their advice and my discussions with the NCAA Board of Governors, I have made the decision to conduct our upcoming championship events, including the Division I men's and women's basketball tournaments, with only essential staff and limited family attendance. While I understand how disappointing this is for all fans of our sports, my decision is based on the current understanding of how COVID-19 is progressing in the United States. This decision is in the best interest of public health, including that of coaches, administrators, fans and, most importantly, our student-athletes. We recognize the opportunity to compete in an NCAA national championship is an experience of a lifetime for the students and their families. Today, we will move forward and conduct championships consistent with the current information and will continue to monitor and make adjustments as needed."
 
The statement from NCAA President Mark Emmert applies to the upcoming NCAA Division II South Regionals for which both UAH's women's and men's basketball teams have qualified along with this weekend's Division II Indoor Track and Field National Championships.
 
The UAH Department of Athletics is continuing to closely monitor the situation with the outbreak and will follow guidance from the University of Alabama System. 
 
Updates will be provided as necessary going forward.