ST. EDWARD’S UNIVERSITY DISCONTINUES SIX ATHLETICS PROGRAMS IN RESPONSE TO ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF CORONAVIRUS
AUSTIN - As the effects of the coronavirus continue to impact every sector of the economy, higher education is no exception. Along with other universities across the country, St. Edward's is making difficult, but financially sound decisions for the future of our institution. At the end of the spring semester, the university is discontinuing six athletic programs: men's and women's tennis, men's and women's golf and men's soccer. Cheer will be transitioned to a club team under the guidance of the RecWell Department.
"I am deeply grateful to the coaches who have worked diligently over the years to build nationally recognized and well-respected programs. The coaches and student-athletes in these programs are talented and hard-working, and I respect them immensely," said Debbie Taylor, associate vice president for Athletics. "As we make this difficult transition, I know that all of our coaches and staff members have our student-athletes as a top priority and will work closely with them to support their needs."
All scholarship-eligible student-athletes impacted by this reduction will have their athletic scholarships honored for the duration of their undergraduate enrollment at St. Edward's. Those wishing to transfer and compete at another institution will be given their full and immediate release.
These decisions follow a comprehensive evaluation of the athletics program including sport sponsorship, state of available facilities, cost of running programs and future enrollment expectations. The university is committed to providing our student-athletes an environment of academic excellence, quality facilities and opportunities to compete and achieve at the highest levels. This immediate action to redistribute financial resources allows the university to continue programing for: men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, men's and women's track, women's soccer, volleyball, baseball, softball and esports.
With these remaining teams, the university's athletics program remains in compliance with NCAA DII and Lone Star Conference membership requirements of sport sponsorship. We continue our commitment to support gender equity in athletics and empowering student-athletes to reach their maximum potential in academic success, athletic competition and personal development.