RED WAVE - This weekend, I should be preparing to watch our top 25 ranked softball team face San Diego State at Margie Wright Diamond, or our women's basketball team compete in postseason play. Or planning to follow our five wrestlers and our diver who qualified to compete in the NCAA Championships. I was excited about championship runs from our nationally ranked equestrian and water polo programs, and the defense of Mountain West titles by baseball and men's tennis. So much potential. So much excitement. And it was all over in a day.

I hurt for our student-athletes. As someone who has witnessed the hard work and dedication our student-athletes commit every day in the pursuit of athletic excellence, it was upsetting to see their seasons end so abruptly. But, as a parent and Athletics Director, I appreciate and support the steps that we have taken to ensure the health and safety of our student-athletes, staff, and fans. With the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, I understand the need to ensure that we do not contribute to the spread of the pandemic and protect all of the people involved in our programs.

Despite all the negative news, there have been moments of great pride. Our coaches have provided tremendous leadership. They have cared for our student-athletes and provided wise counsel at a time of much uncertainty.   Our student-athletes have demonstrated great maturity while adapting to a new normal. They have been strong teammates and supportive of one another. They are our future leaders and I am confident that this experience and others will only make them stronger and more resilient in the pursuit of their goals.

While there are so many unanswered questions, there are a few things I do know for certain. I know that in times of adversity, our Valley has always stood tall. I know that all of us, from coaches and student-athletes to our fans and alumni, are on the same team and we share the same goal. I know that our collective purpose will outlast and overcome this great challenge. I know that the Bulldog Spirit will not be compromised. I know that the meaning behind mantras such as 'No 'Dogs Down' and 'Pride of the Valley' has never been more appropriate.

While the delivery of our collective efforts may be different for now, we will not back down from our responsibility to serve our student-athletes, our institution, and our community. We will remain steadfast in our mission to prepare our young people for success in competition, in the classroom, and in life while representing our great Valley.

I can't begin to express my gratitude to you, the Red Wave. I appreciate your unwavering support of our student-athletes and our programs. On behalf of all of us at Fresno State, we look forward to greeting you again inside our venues and watching together as our student-athletes continue to make us proud.

As always, Go 'Dogs!
Terry Tumey
Director of Athletics