NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -  Little by little over the coming weeks and months, Christopher Newport University athletic teams will be returning to practice and actual competition on fields, courts and tracks. Although athletic activity is still far from normal operating procedure, many Captains programs have been holding safely-distanced workouts and small-group practice sessions to begin what everyone hopes will soon be a return to something close to normalcy.
 
"The past year has forced us all to adapt and embrace flexibility," Director of Athletics Kyle McMullin said. "Our students have met these challenging times with incredible grace and commitment. I am so proud of, and thankful for, the hundreds of student-athletes and staff that remain dedicated to resuming competition in a safe and responsible manner."
 
As competition begins on Tuesday evening with men's basketball opening a shortened season of scrimmages at Shenandoah University, fans are reminded that no spectators will be able to view the action in person due to CoVID restrictions.
 
"It is deeply disappointing that we will not be able to welcome our families and friends back to campus this winter and spring," McMullin continued. "At the guidance of the medical community and consistent with the campus visitor policy, this is a necessary precaution to ensure we give our students the best chance to compete in as many games as possible."
 
Men's basketball will be followed by women's basketball and track & field in the coming days. Shortly thereafter, football will begin a shortened schedule of practices and games and additional fall sports and then spring sports will follow. Most squads will take part in a partial schedule that will feature games as well as scrimmages. Schedules for each program will be posted and updated daily on CNUsports.com.
 
"For those of us accustomed to the routine and comforts that come with a team's schedule, this winter and spring will be difficult," McMullin said. "Our staff and students expect, and are prepared for, the fact that as we navigate through competing in a pandemic, our schedules will change often and often on short notice. "
 
While there will be no spectators present, CNUsports.com will present many of the home events as well as opponent streams of games, when available, live on the website. Check back daily as schedules and updates will be available on CNUsports.com.