Women’s Basketball, Men’s Ice Hockey Begin Seasons This Week
Today concludes the two-week pause in University of Maine Division I winter athletics competition. UMaine Men’s Ice Hockey games scheduled against New Hampshire on Dec. 11–12 are being moved to Durham, New Hampshire.
Black Bear athletics is the state’s only Division I program. Its winter athletic teams adhere to safety practices and utilize facilities that are unique to Maine, and aligned with the requirements of the NCAA and its athletic conferences. Winter program athletes, coaches and staff have been tested for COVID-19 1,665 times since the start of the semester, including 1,020 times since the Nov. 24 pause in athletic activities.
Every test result received by the university involving a winter sports competitor since the Nov. 24 pause in athletics has been negative.
“Our return to competition has prioritized the safety of our student-athletes and Maine communities,” says UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. “We are incredibly proud of how hard and responsibly our student-athletes have prepared for this season. Our players and coaches are ready, and all of Black Bear Nation will be cheering them on!”
“Our teams are thrilled to be able to resume their competitive seasons,” says UMaine athletics director Ken Ralph. “The students have worked hard to stay safe while preparing physically for their seasons. It will be exciting for all Black Bear fans to see their teams take to the court or the ice this weekend!”
Varsity Competition Schedule for Dec. 10–12
Women’s Basketball: Dec. 10 at Providence; Dec. 11 at Rhode Island
Women’s Ice Hockey: Dec. 11–12 at New Hampshire
Men’s Ice Hockey: Dec. 11–12 at New Hampshire
Men’s Basketball: No games scheduled until Dec. 19–20 at Hartford
The University of Maine continues to monitor developments with the pandemic closely and assess opportunities to host home games in adherence with University of Maine System and public health guidance.