Letter From The AD: Special Edition
3/20/2020 6:37:00 PM | General, Student Services, Student-Athletes
A letter from Montana State Director of Athletics Leon Costello
Dear Bobcats,
I hope this letter finds you healthy and safe. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, I felt it was important to update you on the status of Bobcat Athletics during these unprecedented times.
I want to start by thanking the leadership at Montana State University for the guidance and support given during this challenging time. We are fortunate to be a part of an institution that places its people first and President Cruzado and her leadership team have continued to provide essential information and guidance during this time. This situation is constantly evolving, and I encourage you to visit the online campus hub for the most current information as it relates to MSU.
I also want to thank the athletic staff, coaches, and student-athletes for their ability to adapt and be flexible during this time. Our normal operating procedures have changed, and all have accepted the challenge like CHAMPIONS. Like any organization, we are stronger TOGETHER and that is proving true once again. Our top priority is, and has always been, the health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes, and it's inspiring to see everyone come together in support of this mission during this time of adversity.
Bobcat fans, boosters and alumni have shown their support by sending notes of concern and encouragement for MSU athletic programs. THANK YOU! Our student-athletes, coaches, staff and healthcare professionals need that encouragement now more than ever.
It is important to note that most athletic department operations are now being conducted remotely and most athletic facilities are closed. We are asking our staff to work from home and follow all recommended CDC guidelines, especially social distancing. Please feel free to contact us by using our staff directory. Email and/or social media platforms may be the timeliest for the time being.
Classes on campus will shift to remote delivery starting Monday, March 23. We will continue to provide the essential services to our student-athletes including healthcare and academic support. All healthcare and therapy sessions will be conducted in consultation with the athletic training and Bozeman Health staffs, while academic support will be done remotely or on an appointment basis as needed, including tutoring. It is imperative we continue to provide these services so our student-athletes can finish the academic year successfully.
We are also assisting student-athletes with their housing needs. Per the email from President Cruzado on Wednesday night, the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education urges all students to not return to campus after spring break or to find other, less-dense living arrangements for their own health and safety as well as that of others. The higher density living of the residence halls is not recommended by health officials. Rest assured, we will work with each student-athlete and their specific needs during this time.
As you have probably seen or heard, the Big Sky Conference announced the cancellation of all 2020 spring competitions and championships. Additionally, all organized practices and workouts have been suspended until further notice. The Big Sky conference office and athletic directors will reconvene before April 3 to determine the status of these parameters moving forward. It's also important to note that we've canceled all public non-competition events for March and April as well.
As we continue to monitor the landscape of college athletics and hope for its timely return, we will continue renewing and selling new football season tickets for the 2020 season. Knowing that this situation has affected each of you, too, we have moved the renewal deadline from May 1 to June 1. The Bobcat Ticket Office will be modifying operations from March 23rd through April 5th and will not be open to the public. You can find email and phone support options here.
I can't stress enough the strength, perseverance and teamwork our student-athletes, coaches and staff have shown in this time of great adversity. It should come as no surprise as to why Bobcat athletics programs are so successful in competition and the classroom.
To everyone in Bobcat Nation, thank you for your continued support, especially this past week. Wishing you all safety and health as we work together to #StopTheSpread.
In Bobcat Spirit,
Leon Costello
I hope this letter finds you healthy and safe. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, I felt it was important to update you on the status of Bobcat Athletics during these unprecedented times.
I want to start by thanking the leadership at Montana State University for the guidance and support given during this challenging time. We are fortunate to be a part of an institution that places its people first and President Cruzado and her leadership team have continued to provide essential information and guidance during this time. This situation is constantly evolving, and I encourage you to visit the online campus hub for the most current information as it relates to MSU.
I also want to thank the athletic staff, coaches, and student-athletes for their ability to adapt and be flexible during this time. Our normal operating procedures have changed, and all have accepted the challenge like CHAMPIONS. Like any organization, we are stronger TOGETHER and that is proving true once again. Our top priority is, and has always been, the health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes, and it's inspiring to see everyone come together in support of this mission during this time of adversity.
Bobcat fans, boosters and alumni have shown their support by sending notes of concern and encouragement for MSU athletic programs. THANK YOU! Our student-athletes, coaches, staff and healthcare professionals need that encouragement now more than ever.
It is important to note that most athletic department operations are now being conducted remotely and most athletic facilities are closed. We are asking our staff to work from home and follow all recommended CDC guidelines, especially social distancing. Please feel free to contact us by using our staff directory. Email and/or social media platforms may be the timeliest for the time being.
Classes on campus will shift to remote delivery starting Monday, March 23. We will continue to provide the essential services to our student-athletes including healthcare and academic support. All healthcare and therapy sessions will be conducted in consultation with the athletic training and Bozeman Health staffs, while academic support will be done remotely or on an appointment basis as needed, including tutoring. It is imperative we continue to provide these services so our student-athletes can finish the academic year successfully.
We are also assisting student-athletes with their housing needs. Per the email from President Cruzado on Wednesday night, the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education urges all students to not return to campus after spring break or to find other, less-dense living arrangements for their own health and safety as well as that of others. The higher density living of the residence halls is not recommended by health officials. Rest assured, we will work with each student-athlete and their specific needs during this time.
As you have probably seen or heard, the Big Sky Conference announced the cancellation of all 2020 spring competitions and championships. Additionally, all organized practices and workouts have been suspended until further notice. The Big Sky conference office and athletic directors will reconvene before April 3 to determine the status of these parameters moving forward. It's also important to note that we've canceled all public non-competition events for March and April as well.
As we continue to monitor the landscape of college athletics and hope for its timely return, we will continue renewing and selling new football season tickets for the 2020 season. Knowing that this situation has affected each of you, too, we have moved the renewal deadline from May 1 to June 1. The Bobcat Ticket Office will be modifying operations from March 23rd through April 5th and will not be open to the public. You can find email and phone support options here.
I can't stress enough the strength, perseverance and teamwork our student-athletes, coaches and staff have shown in this time of great adversity. It should come as no surprise as to why Bobcat athletics programs are so successful in competition and the classroom.
To everyone in Bobcat Nation, thank you for your continued support, especially this past week. Wishing you all safety and health as we work together to #StopTheSpread.
In Bobcat Spirit,
Leon Costello
Leon Blue and Gold Gala Tickets
Friday, September 05
Leon Costello Press Conference: Kennedy-Stark Athletic Center
Thursday, July 31
A Conversation with President Dr. Waded Cruzado | Montana State Athletics
Monday, May 19
Big Cats, Little Trucks - Willie Patterson
Wednesday, May 03
