NCAA 96th season likely to feature just 4 disciplines

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ONLY four events in the 96th NCAA Season?

Well, that might become a reality due to the financial repercussions and uncertainties brought about by the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

The league’s Management Committee is set to meet online today and present to the Policy Board its proposal of holding only the mandatory sports — basketball, volleyball, track and field, and swimming — if and when Season 96 pushes through.

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“Malamang iyon na iyon. Nag-agree naman ang ManCom and ipapa-approve sa Policy Board,” a highly-reliable source told Malaya-Business Insight yesterday.

“One reason is, of course, the financial effects of COVID-19 and mahirap din gawin lahat ng sports dahil wala pa tayo sa ‘new normal,’” added the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

With its usual July opening unlikely due to the crisis, the NCAA is eyeing to launch its new season in May or June next year.

Another reason why the country’s oldest collegiate league is mulling to stage lesser events includes the expected cost-cutting measures of schools. And although Metro Manila has transitioned into a more relaxed general community quarantine last June 1, sports-related mass gatherings like basketball are still not allowed.

“The availability and conditioning of the student-athletes are also factors,” said the source.

“Of course, we are waiting din for government directives.”

Season 95 was terminated last March at the start of the government-imposed lockdown to stem the spread of the virus.

Events such as indoor volleyball, football, lawn tennis, soft tennis, track and field, beach volleyball, and cheerleading were called off for good.

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