Hope College football coach Peter Stuursma and senior quarterback Joey Stark discuss on the Orange and Blue Hope Athletics Podcast this week's decision that the program will focus on preparing for the Fall 2021 season and will not participate in MIAA league play this spring.

Ray and Sue Smith Stadium

The Flying Dutchmen instead will follow a phased-in offseason training program this spring that includes strength and conditioning work, four to five weeks of practice, and the potential for scrimmages.

The Flying Dutchmen will kick off the 2021 fall season on Saturday, Sept. 4. Hope hosts Anderson University at Ray and Sue Smith Stadium.

2021 fall schedule

Focusing on the Fall 2021 season, Stuursma said, is driven by having in mind the best interests of Hope's football student-athletes, the program, and the institution of Hope.

College announcement of the football decision