Coaches worry Wichita State’s golf cuts signal growing trend

TL;DR

Wichita State University has abruptly cut its men's and women's golf programs, citing financial sustainability. This decision raises concerns among coaches about the impact on aspiring golfers' opportunities.

Key points

Wichita State University cuts men's and women's golf programs
Decision made for financial sustainability
Concerns raised by coaches about student-athlete opportunities

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Wichita State University shocked the golf community on Tuesday, announcing the immediate termination of its men’s and women’s programs, citing cost.

The university said the decision aims to “ensure the long-term sustainability of Shockers Athletics amid an increasingly complex and costly collegiate athletics landscape.”

KSN’s Raj Ghanekar spoke with golf coaches at both the junior college and high school levels to understand how the move impacts their players’ dreams of competing at the next level.

Wichita State abruptly ends golf programs due to cost

Golf is one of the few sports that takes a lifetime to master. Marie Thomas, Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s head girls’ golf coach, said the sport teaches patience, resilience and humility.

For youngsters who fall in love with the sport, playing at the college level means more time for them to develop their skills.

“Any time that you can give a kid an opportunity to chase a dream as well as get their education at the same time, I think that that’s invaluable,” said Chris Young, Hutchison Community College’s head men’s golf coach.

But some high school and junior college coaches are becoming increasingly concerned about shrinking opportunities for their players at four-year universities, citing Wichita State as an early example.

“The money just doesn’t grow on trees, and they’re trying to raise money for a lot of different things,” Young said. “Unfortunately, golf is a non-revenue-making sport, and that’s going to be one of the first ones to feel the effect.”

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Securing a place on a high-level golf team, like in all sports, is a competitive process. And as opportunities begin to dwindle, it becomes increasingly difficult for players to pursue their dreams.

“They work hard in high school, and they do a lot outside of high school, the tournaments that they do, so they can be seen to get to that next level,” Thomas said.

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Q&A

Why did Wichita State University cut its golf programs?

Wichita State University terminated its golf programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of its athletics amid rising costs.

What are the implications of Wichita State's golf program cuts for student-athletes?

The cuts may hinder student-athletes' chances of competing at higher levels, as coaches express concern over the loss of opportunities for aspiring golfers.

How are local coaches reacting to the cuts at Wichita State?

Local junior college and high school coaches are worried about the negative impact on their players' dreams of advancing in competitive golf.