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Pandemic forces Boise State to cut two sports
Published:
The financial burden the COVID-19 pandemic has caused will force Boise State to eliminate two sports from its athletic department. The school released a statement on Thursday.
Boise State Athletic Director Curt Apsey released a statement saying that the school will no longer fund a baseball or swimming and diving team.
“This is one of the hardest decision athletic departments have to make, but it comes at a time when we are facing the most serious financial challenge we have every seen,” Apsey said. “Times like these are difficult for many people and we appreciate everyone who has supported these programs over the years, including our coaches, current and former student-athletes, donors and fans. We take all these measures seriously, knowing that the long-term stability of our department must remain a high priority.”
In the release, Boise State also said it is reducing its athletic department budget by almost $3 million.
Scholarships for student-athletes participating in those sports will be honored, as well as incoming freshmen. Those who wish to transfer to another school will receive immediate eligibility.
Boise State is not the only college or university that has been forced to cut athletic programs during this time. Several others, including Cincinnati, Old Dominion, Akron, Central Michigan, FIU, UConn and East Carolina have also been forced to eliminate sports.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB