Varsity seasons remain up in the air
While Queen’s students now know their fall classes will be delivered online, student athletes don’t know whether their seasons will be played this fall semester.
The Athletics and Recreation (A&R) website says the pandemic is an ever-changing situation and, ultimately, the decision on fall semester sports will depend on advice from Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Public Health, as well as the plans of Ontario University Athletics (OUA) and U Sports.
“The University is assessing how remote instruction for most students for the fall term may impact sport and recreation to determine what options may be feasible and available. This includes receiving advice from public health, as well as monitoring what other institutions and the OUA and U SPORTS are planning,” the Queen’s Athletics website states.
The University opened limited outdoor facilities on May 22 where social distancing is feasible. These facilities include Nixon and Tindall Fields, along with the Tindall running track and Summerhill tennis courts. Fields on West Campus remain closed.
It’s also uncertain whether students who opt to return to campus in the fall will be able to use the Athletics and Recreation Centre (ARC). The ARC is closed until further notice, according to its website.
As with sports seasons, A&R’s decision will depend on consultations with KFL&A Public Health.
Queen’s offering fitness classes over Zoom
As of May 4, A&R started offering online fitness classes to supplement closed facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Among others, A&R is offering live dance classes, strength and conditioning, Zumba, and yoga.
The classes are taught by Queen’s Strength and Conditioning coaches, as well as Gaels coaches and players to help keep Queen’s students fit during the pandemic. The coaches have also been providing varsity athletes with remote conditioning plans that allow them to work out from home.
Students can attend any of the classes over Zoom from Monday to Friday at different time slots between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.
As well, Queen’s Strength and Conditioning is offering training “tips and tricks” each weekday on Instagram Live.
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