RegattaCentral

Dear Coaches:

We are following up on our March 16th communication regarding the Schuylkill Navy’s 2020 Stotesbury Cup Regatta.

Since that time, developments around the COVID-19 crisis have occurred at a rapid pace, including Philadelphia Mayor Kenney’s stay-at-home order issued on March 22nd and the IOC’s postponement of this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo earlier today.

Following discussion with our partners at Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and our Regatta Management team, we have concluded that the Stotesbury Cup Regatta scheduled for May 15-16 must be cancelled.  Before reaching this decision, we explored every scenario to allow us to reach a different conclusion; but, in the end, the path of brainstorming led us to this same difficult place.

The well-being of our athletes, coaches, families, fans, referee corps, and volunteers is at the forefront of this decision. With increasingly comprehensive guidelines being issued by health experts and city, state and federal officials, as well as sporting events at all levels suspending play, we feel it is morally and ethically responsible to make this determination.

We know that the spring season is the most important of the year for our scholastic athletes. We deeply regret that this disappointing outcome is added to all the things with which they – and you -  must cope. We’re comforted knowing that they have you in their lives to help them through this difficult passage and to remind them that the lessons they’ve learned on the water are ones they will carry with them through life, even in the absence of crossing the line at an event like Stotesbury. 

Ultimately, the safety of our community – locally and globally – is clearly at stake.  And, this responsible decision – however painful – is the needed one for us to do our part.

Thank you for your understanding and for your leadership and support to your athletes in the weeks and months ahead.

Stay safe and well