Wittenberg University Cancels Athletic Events Amid Security Concerns
Wittenberg University, a Division III institution nestled in Springfield, Ohio, announced on Tuesday that it has suspended all athletic events through Sunday due to ongoing security concerns on campus. While specific details regarding the nature of these threats were not disclosed, the university emphasized the seriousness of the situation.
In addition to halting athletic events, Wittenberg has transitioned all classes to a remote format for the remainder of the week, ensuring the safety of its students and staff. The decision came after a thorough review of new threats that emerged on Monday.
Initially, on Saturday, Wittenberg had canceled all school events planned for Sunday, including various athletic competitions. However, after evaluating the continuous threats of violence affecting both the campus and the Springfield community, the university opted to extend its precautionary measures. In an official statement, Wittenberg said:
“After receiving new threats on Monday, Sept. 16, and in light of ongoing threats of violence on our campus and in the Springfield community, Wittenberg will go fully remote for the rest of the week (Monday, Sept. 16-Sunday, Sept. 22). The University is taking each threat seriously, and Wittenberg Police are collaborating closely with other law enforcement agencies to investigate any and all threats made toward our campus, employees, and students.”
Concerns regarding campus safety began escalating last week following a presidential debate, during which former President Donald Trump perpetuated a unfounded rumor that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were involved in the abduction and consumption of household pets. This incendiary claim has led to a wave of fear in the community.
On Monday, two local elementary schools were evacuated due to bomb threats, highlighting the troubling atmosphere. According to a report by The New York Times, a staggering total of 33 bomb threats have targeted schools in the city since Trump’s allegations. Additionally, Springfield City Hall and two hospitals have also faced threats, further compounding the community’s distress.
In response to these alarming developments, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced that he would deploy state police to Springfield to reassure residents of their safety. He stated, “We must take every threat seriously, but children deserve to be in school, and parents deserve to know that their kids are safe. The added security will help ease some of the fears caused by these hoaxes.”
Wittenberg had multiple athletic teams scheduled to compete between Tuesday and Sunday, including:
- Men’s and Women’s Soccer
- Men’s and Women’s Cross Country
- Men’s Tennis
- Field Hockey
- Women’s Volleyball
- Football
- Men’s and Women’s Golf
A spokesperson for Wittenberg Athletics acknowledged the disruption caused by these cancellations, stating, “We recognize that this may be disruptive to the previously planned athletic contests and all participants, but we ask for understanding during this difficult time for our University and our extended community of Springfield.”
With many students opting to return home to complete their remote classwork, the athletic staff at Wittenberg is committed to working closely with student-athletes to develop individualized training plans until it is safe to resume sports activities. Furthermore, the university aims to reschedule any competitions missed due to these security issues.
In light of the cancellations, Wittenberg’s women’s cross country team, which has won back-to-back conference championships, will unfortunately miss the prestigious All-Ohio Championship events scheduled for Friday.
(Photo: Luke Sharrett / Getty Images)
