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Wichita State Abruptly Shuts Down Men’s and Women’s Golf, Citing Financial Strain
Athletic director Kevin Saal said the move reflects long-term financial pressure as the university cuts two programs that had just finished their seasons.
On Tuesday, Athletic Director Kevin Saal announced the immediate discontinuation of Wichita State's NCAA men's and women's golf programs, effective immediately.
Long-Term financial sustainability prompted the decision, as the university aims to save about $1 million in personnel, scholarships, and recruiting costs amid an increasingly complex athletics landscape.
With a history dating back to 1935, the men's golf program earned 29 NCAA appearances and 21 conference titles. Saal praised Head Coaches Judd Easterling and Tom McCurdy for their integrity.
Student-Athletes who choose to remain at Wichita State will continue receiving existing financial assistance, subject to NCAA eligibility standards; those transferring receive individualized support.
Wichita State joins other institutions cutting sports costs; Illinois State shuttered its men's tennis program on Thursday, while Arkansas, Saint Louis, and North Dakota dropped tennis programs in recent weeks.