semesters, but they only generally follow UMM's semesters—all of the SSC courses are shorter. The courses are not for credit, are taught by volunteers with expertise in their areas, and no one needs to be a college (or even high school) graduate to attend. Maine Blackfly Breeders Association Annual Convention The University of Maine at Machias has for many years been host to the annual Maine Blackfly Breeders Association convention in March. Convention-goers are asked to bring limericks, jokes, stories and songs for annual contests. Exhibits, art, crafts and other items also are sought. Special guests in March 2009 were members of the UMM Ukulele Club. Bloody Merry, an 8-foot-long black fly who made her debut at the 2007 convention, was in attendance, gently flapping her wings and posing for admirers. Breeders also heard the latest buzz on the association’s attempts at establishing a blackfly farm in Washington County, first discussed at last year’s event. (The blackfly farm would harness the power of black flies to provide renewable energy.) Athletics Maine–Machias (UMM) athletic teams were the Clippers. The university was a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA), primarily competing in the Yankee Small College Conference (YSCC) from 2011–12 to 2019–20. The Clippers previously participated in the Sunrise Athletic Conference of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) from 2002–03 to 2010–11. Maine–Machias (UMM) competed in five intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports included basketball and soccer; while women's sports included basketball, soccer and volleyball. Suspension On July 21st, 2020, Machias suspended all sports due to financial losses and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Clubs/intramurals The university also offers several club and intramural sports. References External links Official website Official athletics website Educational institutions established in 1909 Machias, Maine University of Maine System University of Maine at Machias Universities and colleges in Washington County, Maine USCAA member institutions 1909 establishments in Maine University of Maine Machias