Although some large gatherings in the United States have been cancelled over concerns of the Coronavirus, the NJCAA Division II Men’s National Basketball Tournament in Danville will proceed. As of Sunday (March 8, 2020) six cases of Coronavirus have been diagnosed in Illinois but none of them are in the Danville area.
Local tournament chairman Brian Hensgen says the NJCAA has been closely watching developments regarding the virus…
{‘’Well, about a week ago the NJCAA sent out notification – just letting everyone know, all the host schools that they’re aware of the situation and they want everyone to be safe. Everyone can make a choice on their own if they feel as if they want to come out. But, ultimately Danville Area Community College, (and) our community has addressed the situation in taking extra precaution to do extra cleaning around the facility,’’ said Hensgen. ‘’And we’re going to be posting signs to let people know that if they’re not feeling well to try to stay home.’’}
Hensgen says the games in the Mary Miller Gymnasium at Danville Area Community College will begin on schedule on March 17th….
{‘’You know, we’re taking every precaution that we can. The NJCAA has said that they’re not planning on canceling anything. So, we’re full steam ahead. We’re going to host the event,’’ said Hensgen on WDAN Radio’s ‘Sports Talk’ Show. ”They’re even planning their national convention in Charlotte. And we’ve all made our reservations, so we’re moving forward with that to go down and talk to them about the post-game report.”}
The field is now set for the tournament. The final entries were determined by games held over the weekend.
And Hensgen adds that on the opening night of the tournament it will be Veterans appreciation night. All veterans with a valid ID will be admitted to the games free. And also that evening (March 17th) the Jesse White Tumblers will be performing during halftime of the 6:30 and 8:30 games.
