College athletes playing upcoming NCAA Division III sports during the covid-19 era will not have to burn a year of eligibility if their team completes 50% or less of its maximum contests.

The decision to offer a blanket waiver for 2020-21 was announced Thursday by the D-III administrative committee.

The idea is for student-athletes to be able to play a full four years without penalty.

Schools may be forced to shorten seasons with looming health concerns and the continued spread of covid-19. If teams do complete 50% or more of their games or matches, but the athlete does not play in every contest, the athlete would not be eligible for the waiver. The NCAA, however, could review situations on a case-by-case basis.

Additionally, student-athletes may be able to receive a two-semester/three-quarter extension of eligibility if they met certain requirements.

The waivers apply to all sports during the 2020-21 school year.

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