University of Hawaii Rainbow Wahine volleyball, soccer and cross-country will not be competing for the 2020-‘21 season following an announcement of cancellation by the Big West Conference due to health considerations, it was announced today.

In a statement, the Big West Board of Directors said its decision, “Came after extended consideration of the ongoing health and safety challenges affecting Big West campuses and communities, and the significant resources required to properly safeguard the health and well-being of all student-athletes.”

The three sports had been postponed in the fall and were hoping to compete in the winter or spring.

In addition, the Big West acknowledged it “will continue to monitor and evaluate the current program of COVID-19 medical and safety protocols in men’s and women’s basketball. Basketball will guide a decision regarding a safe return to competition for Big West spring sports.”

That decision is expected by late January 2021, the conference said.

“This was a difficult decision, particularly in light of the significant sacrifices our staff, coaches, student-athletes and their families have already made in the interest of public health,” said Howard Gillman Chair of UC Irvine, who chairs the Big West Board of Directors.

“While this decision is disappointing for many, the health and safety of Big West student-athletes, coaches, staff and the campus community continue to be the preeminent priorities for the CEO’s of the conference’s 11 institutions,” Gillman said.