In response to today’s press release from the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) announcing the cancellation or postponement of three 2020 world championship events – the 2020 World Ultimate & Guts Championships (WUGC), the 2020 World Junior Ultimate Championships (WJUC) and the 2020 World Masters Ultimate Championships (WMUC), USA Ultimate has issued the following statement:
After witnessing firsthand and knowing how much energy, effort and commitment our athletes put into being a part of the 2020 U.S. National Team, we understand the disappointment and sadness they must feel after this decision. Being chosen to represent the United Sates for international competition – especially after an extremely competitive tryout and selection process – is one of the highest honors an athlete can achieve in any sport. For those athletes, this is an accomplishment that can never be taken away and this unfortunate outcome does not lessen that achievement.
That said, we appreciate and fully support WFDF’s decision and the amount of thought and consideration that went into it. We know it was not an easy decision to make, but believe that it was the right one under the circumstances. Like WFDF, the health, safety and well-being of our members and the greater ultimate community stands alone as our top priority as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite this setback, we are confident that many more incredible competitive opportunities will exist for these athletes in the future, including the chance to play for a future U.S. National Team. We look forward to watching those moments unfold and supporting those athletes however we can.
“These Team USA athletes inspire us every day and we share in the community’s sadness and disappointment in light of this development,” commented USA Ultimate Chief Executive Officer Tom Crawford. “In no way does this diminish the fact that these athletes were chosen for their athleticism, spirit and character to proudly represent the United States on our sport’s biggest stage, and would have done so in a way that made us all very proud. They are forever a part of our national team program and we look forward to creating new opportunities for them to pursue their dreams and excel on the international scene for years to come.”
“It is also a time for us to come together as a community and commit to keeping everyone safe and healthy as we work our way through this very difficult time,” continued Crawford. “I wish peace and wellness to all, and sincerely thank these athletes for their amazing commitment to our beautiful sport.”
