SEC cancels annual spring meetings due to pandemic
The Southeastern Conference canceled its annual spring meetings, which have been held annually in Destin since 1985, due to coronavirus pandemic, commissioner Greg Sankey announced Tuesday.
During the meetings football and basketball coaches, athletics directors, school presidents and other high-level sports administrators typically gather to chart the course for one of the nation’s most powerful sports leagues.
Rules, regulations and overall SEC strategy are discussed in various meetings staged over the course of four days following Memorial Day. Key legislation often was determined by week’s end and shared by Sankey and his predecessors, including the late Mike Slive, with reporters from around the Southeast.
The low-key, relaxed atmosphere also was a chance for coaches and schools to set aside their competitive natures and spend a few days with each other and their families on the Florida panhandle.
“The SEC Spring Meetings represent one of our conference’s great traditions and provide an opportunity to celebrate the past year, plan for the future and focus on our mission to serve people through our universities,” Sankey said in a statement. “We regret this year’s event will not be held as planned, but we know cancellation is appropriate in the light of supporting safety and well-being during this unprecedented public health crisis.”
The SEC will determine alternate methods for holding the meetings, while also seeking opportunities to recognize award winners who are honored at the event.
In Destin, the SEC annually recognizes the H. Boyd McWhorter Scholar Athletes of the Year, the Brad Davis Community Service Leaders of the Year and the SEC Professor of the Year.