NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State University announced Friday that due to concerns about the health and well-being of its student-athletes, its volleyball program is opting out of the remainder of the 2021 spring season.

The Spartans finished the spring with a 1-5 record. Their last matches were Feb. 11-12 at North Carolina A&T.

Statement from Kathy Bullock, Head Volleyball Coach
"With 11 new additions and our returning players, this team has shown great promise. But for the safety of our student-athletes, the athletics administration has made the decision to opt out of the rest of the season. I want to thank our players, especially our seniors, for their courage, determination and fight as we strive to take the program to the next level."

Statement from Melody Webb, Athletics Director
"I'm so disappointed for our volleyball student-athletes that they will not be able to finish the spring schedule. Our volleyball program worked hard to prepare for the season. But after careful consideration with our medical personnel, coaches and University administration, we made the difficult decision to opt out of the remainder of the season for the health and safety of our student-athletes."

Statement from Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston, President
"The student and employee health, safety and well-being of our community is a primary concern at Norfolk State University. I support the decision of the Department of Athletics to discontinue the spring 2021 volleyball season. We must continue to demonstrate a culture of care during these unprecedented times.  We know this difficult decision affects the team and our entire campus community and alumni. These measures have been taken to ensure that everyone has the safest environment possible during the pandemic. We look forward to the fall 2021 Volleyball season."