Towson University today announced it will reinstate men’s tennis, and discontinue the men’s soccer and baseball teams. The decision comes after an initial recommendation from the athletics department, and several months of intensive review from President Maravene Loeschke.
“It is with confidence, but great sadness, that I accept the recommendation to discontinue the baseball program at the conclusion of this season and the men’s soccer program, effective immediately,” said Loeschke.
“This was an extremely difficult decision, and I appreciate the Towson community’s patience during this process. It is now time for us to reach out to those affected student athletes and give them all of the support they need.”
Read the president’s message to the campus here.
The decision was made to address three issues facing the athletics department: long-term financial stability and affordability; compliance with Federal Title IX requirements; and the ability to be competitive in NCAA Division I athletics.
Athletics leadership made the initial recommendation, which was reviewed and supported by an Athletics Task Force comprising local community members, alumni and former athletes. President Loeschke then took several months to examine all data, facts and budget projections. She also reviewed the proposal with internal and external financial analysts and Title IX experts to ensure that discontinuing these two sports was the most viable option.
“Working with staff and various constituencies of Towson University, President Loeschke has concluded a comprehensive, transparent and thoughtful review of the university’s intercollegiate athletics program,” said University System of Maryland Chancellor William E. Kirwan.
“While implementation of the recommended actions will be difficult for the student athletes and the extended TU community, unfortunately they are necessary to ensure the fiscal and academic integrity of the athletics program and ensure compliance with Title IX requirements.”
The student athletes impacted by this decision are encouraged to stay at Towson, and will have their scholarships honored for their four years at the university. The athletics department will provide assistance and guidance for all student athletes, whether they stay at Towson or transfer to another school.
“This is a very tough day for the program as a whole, and especially for the young men who are members of these teams,” said Towson Director of Athletics Michael Waddell. “Our focus now is to ensure that each of the impacted student athletes will have a full complement of support services available to them.”
For the president’s full report and additional background on the athletics reconfiguration recommendation process, visit the Athletics Task Force website.
