To All Potsdam Bears Student-Athletes, Staff and Fans,
 
Today's announcement regarding the suspension of competition for Fall sports and delay of the start of competition for Winter sports is something none of us wished for. Like each of you, I'm deeply disappointed that we won't be able to watch our talented student-athletes compete until the new year.
 
Although this was a very difficult decision to make, at the end of the day, it was the correct one. Dare I say, the only one that could be made. Though sport plays an important part in all of our lives, nothing could or should ever come before everyone's safety and well-being. That's simply incontrovertible.
 
As the world works to put an end to this pandemic, we look forward to the time when our student-athletes will be back in uniform and our stands will be packed with our amazing fans. When that time comes, we will be prepared. Prepared to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved and prepared to give each student-athlete the best experience possible.
 
Here at SUNY Potsdam, we are so blessed to be able to rely on a wonderful group of coaches and staff members. I'm 100 percent confident they will continue to work tirelessly in order to provide our student-athletes meaningful, valuable and tangible experiences during the suspension of competition. Most of our fans only see the games and contests; the tip of the iceberg. What goes unnoticed, is the countless number of hours our staff and coaches put in behind the scenes. I'd like them to know how much I appreciate all that they have done and will continue to do.
 
One day, our fans will again get to enjoy alley-oops, overtime winners and set-winning spikes. Our student-athletes will get to enjoy the pre-game butterflies, team huddles and yes, they'll even learn to enjoy the seven-hour bus rides.
 
I'm sure so many of you have questions and I'd like for you to know I'm always happy to chat over email or phone.
 
Go Bears!
Mark Misiak
Interim Director of Athletics