UE Athletics Announces Sport Restructuring

Department Making Changes Effective Following Fall Semester

The University of Evansville Athletics Department has announced a sport restructuring that will be effective following the fall semester of 2017. At that time, the Purple Aces women’s tennis program will be eliminated.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision because of the impact on the affected student-athletes, but it was one that was done with the best interests of our entire student-athlete body, the athletic department and the University of Evansville in mind,” UE Director of Athletics Mark Spencer said.  “This is something that has been discussed internally for several years and this is the right time for all parties involved to move forward with this action.”

Three factors were pivotal in making this decision.  The recent and untimely departure of previous head women’s tennis coach Jayson Wiseman brought into question as to whether to hire a new coach or reconsider program elimination.  Secondly, the successful addition of men’s and women’s track and field at the University of Evansville put the program above the NCAA minimum for NCAA Division I participation while also keeping the program in Title IX compliance.  Lastly, the aging UE tennis courts, limited access to playing facilities within the community and the persistent financial challenges within the university also factored into the decision.

Consultation on this decision involved the University President, Title IX Coordinator, Faculty Athletic Committee, the University of Evansville’s Board of Trustees Athletic Committee and the Director of Athletics.

“The timing of this was done in order to give our student-athletes as much time as possible to determine what is best for their future,” Spencer added.

Current student-athletes on the team who are in good academic standing at UE will have the option to retain their financial aid until they graduate from the university.  Student-athletes wishing to continue their playing career are immediately eligible to transfer and can be eligible for participation in the spring of 2018 semester.

This decision will not have any impact on UE’s affiliation with the Missouri Valley Conference or the NCAA.