Albany State University in Georgia announced Wednesday afternoon that the men's cross country and golf programs will be discontinued at the conclusion of the 2019-20 academic year in an ongoing effort to build an efficient, effective and sustainable athletics program.
As reported by FOX affiliate WFXL, the decision comes as part of an estimated $600,000 budget reduction and realignment of resources that began last year. Cutting the two programs will save $112,000 in operating expenses.
Albany State University in Georgia announced Wednesday afternoon that the men's cross country and golf programs will be discontinued at the conclusion of the 2019-20 academic year in an ongoing effort to build an efficient, effective and sustainable athletics program.
As reported by FOX affiliate WFXL, the decision comes as part of an estimated $600,000 budget reduction and realignment of resources that began last year. Cutting the two programs will save $112,000 in operating expenses.
In a FAQ posted to the ASU website, officials say that data was compiled from every sport in the interest of developing a strategy focused on cost savings, compliance, limiting the impact on student-athletes and personnel, and continuing the development of a world class student-athlete experience.
In all, 13 student-athletes and two coaches will be affected by the cuts. This leaves the college with 11 sports programs and does not impact the school's Division II status or standing within the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic and Peach Belt conferences. ASU officials say that multiple sports are seeing a decrease in scholarships, operational expenses and personnel.
“We understand the impact this has on our student-athletes, coaches and the department,” said ASU interim athletics director Jackie Nicholson. "We are grateful for the student-athletes who have committed themselves to our athletics program and university."
Albany State will continue to honor scholarships for all student-athletes currently participating in golf and cross country, who remain eligible in accordance with university and athletic department policies, according to the university's FAQ. Under NCAA transfer rules, student-athletes are able to transfer to other institutions and be eligible to practice and compete immediately if their current institution has discontinued the program.
