NAIA members,
It's hard to believe it's been a year since the NAIA last hosted a national championship event, but it makes next week even more exciting. Our first winter championships -- indoor track & field and men's wrestling -- are taking place in Yankton, S.D. and Park City, Kan., respectively.
It goes without saying that national championships will look different this year. If you haven't had the chance, I encourage you to review the
Postseason Participant Manual on our website. We are creating sport-specific manuals that will be available to qualifiers approximately three weeks prior to the event. However, the general
Postseason Participant Manual will provide an overview of how processes are being adjusted for COVID-19 across all championships.
Even with these resources, there are numerous questions about championship details. Please direct email inquiries to
[email protected]. We are closely monitoring these inquiries and will respond as quickly as possible. Another option is to leave a voice mail on the membership COVID hotline at
816-595-8384 with your questions about COVID championship protocols.
Six months ago, I wasn't sure we would get to this day. However, with the hard work and dedication of our members, governance groups, host sites, and national office staff, 2021 national championships are a reality. It's exciting and a little nerve-wracking.
So many new processes and adjustments have been implemented, that we will inevitably hit a few snags. Please know that our staff and host sites are doing their best to accommodate our members' needs and give the student-athletes a great championship experience. I hope we'll all be able to extend each other grace as we navigate this experience together.
All the best,
Jim Carr
NAIA President and CEO
