Unconventional start to 2020 football season

By: Lauren Schrott ’21, Staff writer

First downs, third downs and touchdowns are key phrases for many people’s fall season. 

Football is nothing short of a tradition for most American colleges and universities. But when a global pandemic strikes, it’s difficult to see how the season will play out. Some students wonder if they will ever see the star quarterback throw the winning pass or if they will have to sit and watch the leaves change colors.

Unfortunately, it seems we got the latter end of the deal. The staple of fall has been postponed. Football will not play it’s intended season according to the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC). The reasoning is obvious, the health and safety of not only the players but the fans is the number one priority.

“Our team motto has always been ‘Find a way’,” said senior linebacker and captain, Tyler Lutz. “With the postponed season being out of our control, we as a team are continuing to find a way to compete and push each other as if we were in season.”

It’s apparent that LVC football will not let the season affect them negatively. Instead they are rising above the turn of events and embracing it as a way to grow stronger as a team, even through the challenges.

“One of the biggest challenges with COVID-19 this year will be practicing in modified conditions. We started out the year lifting in groups of 15 or less and no outdoor practices,” Lutz explained. “Our ultimate goal is to stay on campus and practice as a full team when COVID protocols allow it. The team is determined to follow COVID protocols and promote student safety during this time.”

Lutz went on to state that the opportunity to stay and practice on campus as a team gives them an advantage over other MAC teams that have been sent home already. 

Unconventional is an understatement for how this season and year is turning out. It’s obvious the Dutchmen still have pride in their hearts and continue to have hope for the spring season, when LVC athletes could have the chance to play.

And remember Dutchmen, the comeback is always stronger than the setback.