Update on the Program - 2020/21 Season

Sonoma State Lacrosse Family,

Greetings from Rohnert Park.  It was at this time last year that I got to sit down and share some reflections from the 2019 fall ball session and the excitement the team had for the season to come.  As I wrote to all of you, I remember thinking how long the winter break was going to feel.  I couldn't wait to get our first day of Hell Week underway, break down film during game week, and feel the adrenaline rush of waking up on Saturday knowing that face off was just a few hours away.  As I write to all of you now, the feelings are very different.  

Since the season was shut down in early March, Sonoma State has remained in a Distance Learning model with all of the other schools within the Cal State system.  Our players have been scattered throughout the state working from home, in apartments shared with teammates, and doing the best they are able to keep grades and spirits up.  It has not been easy for them.  Strict rules have been implemented by the university in accordance with the mandates put out by the county. As a result, we have not been allowed to meet as a team with the exception of online interaction.  I am proud to share that many of our players have done what they have been able to do for the program.  We held a successful fundraiser to ensure some financial security for the club going forward, (thank you to those of you who donated)!  In light of not being able to get together for our annual Day of Service, players individually took part in their own Day of Service on November 15th.  Wearing their Sonoma Blue, guys took on a beach clean up, participated in food drives at local food banks, cleared yards of leaves for neighbors, and helped beautify local parks either here in Rohnert Park or back in their own home town. The pictures were wonderful to see.

So here comes the hard part: for the first time since 1986, the Sonoma State Men's Lacrosse Team will not be taking the field in the spring.  Like all of the other CSU schools, Sonoma State will continue with Distance Learning through next semester.  The Cal State chancellor has ruled that no travel will be permitted by CSU organizations through June 30th.  The Interim County Health Officer has worked with the university to ensure that no SSU organization travel outside of the county unit the vaccination process is significantly underway.  Mr. A and I have been following developments closely with hope that in some way shape or form, the momentum of the pandemic would shift in a manner that could possibly put the season in play for our program.  Sadly, any changes that have indeed taken place have gone in the opposite direction.  

I felt that it was important to share all of this with you as directly as possible.  This is a hard time for our players who long for the opportunity to return to in-person classes, socialize with friends and teammates, and play the sport they love.  The coaching staff remains committed to the young men and will be getting to work on the 2021 fall ball session immediately.  I believe there is an opportunity here to come out of this situation stronger than when we entered it and our work will reflect our belief in that cause.  

I wish all of our players, families, and alumni a safe, healthy, and Happy Holiday season.  We have much to be grateful for, much to be proud of, and much to work for ahead.  

Sincerely,

Coach Hewitt