Why Treat Student-Athletes As Essential Workers?

 It is obvious that COVID19 is making an impact on schools across the country and in the process, impacted the student-athletes on many programs enough to put the programs on pause for the time being.  So many games have been cancelled or postponed. But these schools insist on playing the games not because the student-athletes wanted it, they did do it to appease the alumni and supporters who demanded to see them play once again. It is all about money.

You gotta play or I'm not going to donate or support your program.  The schools quivered each time the supporter say that to their faces.  That's why they forced the student-athletes to play.  They, for the lack of better word, essentially became the essential workers to meet the demands of the others.

I find it very disturbing, to say the least.

I'm a huge fan of Virginia Cavaliers who is currently No. 16 in the country with 3-1 record. Since November 25, Virginia has underwent the cancellations, postponements and replacements of various teams in St. Peters, Maine, Florida, Michigan State, Wake Forest, Villanova and William & Mary.

That is 7 teams against Virginia's current record at 3-1.  

So what is the point?  For the safety and health of its players, I think the whole season should be cancelled and the student-athletes be allowed to play another year.  At this point, it is not fair to the student-athletes to fulfill their efforts to appease the fans rather than to ensure that they receive education in safe and healthy route.  

I predict that many teams will experience frequent cancellations and postponements in January and February and yes, the March Madness produces money but at this point, at what expense should it be?  The lives of student-athletes?

Cheers,

R-