Dear Catamount Country,

As I write to you during these unsettling and uncertain times, my thoughts are, of course, with each of you in the hopes that you, your families and loved ones are safe and well. The public health crisis and economic uncertainty that we are now facing has had a dramatic impact on all aspects of society, including higher education, sports organizations at every level, and our world of college athletics. While sports are appropriately taking a back seat to far greater concerns at this time, my colleagues and I have been busy doing our part to promote and support the health and wellbeing of the Catamount Athletics Family -- our student-athletes, coaches, staff and the broader community

Since the beginning of this crisis, I've been inspired by the collective sense of responsibility and care that exists in our community.  Many of our student-athletes and coaches had their seasons (and in some cases careers) end in the harshest of ways, and yet I have not heard one complaint or witnessed an ounce of self-pity. Instead, our student-athletes and staff have focused their energy on supporting each other, maintaining a positive attitude, and ensuring that when the time comes to return, they are ready to represent the Green and Gold with the same spirit and dedication that has defined Catamount athletes for generations. 

The weeks and months ahead will undoubtedly require this same sense of resolve. All of us at UVM Athletics will continue to work within the confines of the "new and evolving normal' to fulfill our personal and professional responsibilities. The work we all do to serve students and enrich the community will be more important than ever. I'm proud of our department and know that collectively we will meet the challenges ahead in creative, thoughtful and compassionate ways.  

With this is mind, I do want to make you aware of a few important updates on our facility project, the hockey coaching search, and our season ticket/Victory Club renewal process.  

• Like almost all construction activity in Vermont, the athletic facility project is currently on hold as a result of Governor Scott's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order.  During this pause in construction, the UVM Board of Trustees has asked that all campus capital projects be evaluated for efficiencies and re-sequencing options that could provide the University with additional short-term financial flexibility to assist with the impact of COVID-19. At this time, it's unclear how the pause in construction and any related adjustments will affect the project's overall timeline, but I will certainly keep you updated as more information becomes available. I remain very grateful for the strong support of our trustees and President Garimella on this critical project.


• Our men's ice hockey coaching search is nearing completion and we look forward to introducing our new coach to Catamount Country in the very near future. The quality of the pool is exceptionally strong and a credit to the history, tradition and amazing fan support that makes UVM Hockey so special.


• We have pushed back dates and deadlines for season ticket renewals and our annual Victory Club campaign. A variety of payment options will also be offered in order to provide fans and Victory Club members as much flexibility as possible. Look for additional information to come out soon.

I also want to acknowledge the recent passing of three amazing members of the Catamount Family.  The incomparable Mary Anne "Mama Gooch" Gucciardi, longtime WCAX sports anchor Tony Adams, and UVM Trustee/former State Representative Bernie Juskiewiecz have each in their own unique way left an indelible mark on our program. Their contributions are almost impossible to quantify, and they will forever be part of the long, proud history that is UVM Athletics. I know that I represent all of Catamount Country in sending love, warm thoughts and deep appreciation to their families and loved ones.  
 
Finally, a huge thank you to all of you for your continued loyalty and support of our student-athletes, coaches and staff. I look forward to being back in each others' company soon cheering on the Catamounts. Until then, I wish good health to you, your families, and all those around you.
 
Go Cats Go!


Jeff Schulman '89
Director of Athletics
 
p.s. If you haven't already seen it, please take a look at this special video message to Catamount Country from a couple weeks back.