Boise State to Drop Wrestling, Add Baseball

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Idaho Falls Post Register

 

BOISE - Boise State will drop its wrestling program and intends to pursue baseball, the school announced Tuesday. The Broncos went 2-9 this season and have not won more than three matches in a season since 2012-13.

"This was not an easy decision, but one that needed to be made as we consider the long-term vision for Bronco athletics," athletic director Curt Apsey said in the statement. "We will continue to honor the scholarships we provide our student-athletes, and will do all we can to help those who want to continue their collegiate wrestling careers elsewhere.

"Additionally, current coaching contracts will be honored."

The wrestling program has been a part of Boise State's athletics since 1959, but it has fallen on hard times in recent years, going 11-35-1 in duals the last four seasons. Coach Greg Randall, who had been at the helm since 2002, was fired in April 2016, replaced by Cal State-Bakersfield coach Mike Mendoza.

According to the Idaho State Board of Education's most recent athletics budget report, released last April, the wrestling program had $222,494 in revenue for 2014-15 and $460,760 in expenses.

In an additional release, Boise State gave explanations for shutting down wrestling and why it intends to pursue baseball.

"The elimination of wrestling alone will not be enough from a budgetary or structural standpoint, but it was the first step that needed to be taken to build the future structure of the athletics department," the release said. "When it became clear that the university could not support both baseball and wrestling from a budgetary and structural standpoint, it was decided to simply make the tough decision in hopes of giving our coaches and student-athletes ample time to pursue their careers elsewhere if they choose.

"Baseball is the only Mountain West-sponsored sport not offered by Boise State. Additionally, we believe baseball will strengthen the long-term brand and reputation of Boise State at a national level."

Current wrestlers are free to transfer from Boise State and will receive help in the process, according to the statement.

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April 19, 2017
 
 
 

 

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