Varsity ski programs discontinued as Athletics cuts costs
The men’s and women’s skiing programs will be discontinued as varsity sports beginning with the 2010 season, according to athletic director John McCutcheon.
The move is being made as part of a budget reduction and reorganization plan to address an $850,000 shortfall due to a permanent state budget cut of $600,000 and additional expenses.
In addition to the action being taken with the ski programs, the department will make administrative reductions, across-the-board operating cuts and use non-base funding to fill the remaining gap.
“This is an extremely difficult decision,” said McCutcheon. “The skiing programs have been a big part of the athletic history at UMass. We want to recognize the contributions that those associated with the programs both past and present have made to the University. Additionally it is our intent to support a transition to club sport status for both teams. It is our sincere hope that current and future skiers will have an opportunity to have a positive experience at the club level.”
The school determined that this action was required after a review of all sports that included gender equity, Title IX issues, competitive aspirations as well as NCAA and conference membership requirements.
In 2008, the men’s ski team took top honors at the USCSA National Championships in both the slalom and giant slalom events. The women’s team won the national championship in 2003.
April 2, 2009.
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