Appalachian State Confronts Budget Cuts, Eliminates Three Sports Programs

Appalachian State University is eliminating three of its sports programs, as pandemic-related budget cuts are forcing the school to reevaluate its athletics offerings. 

Men's soccer, men's tennis, and men's indoor track and field programs are all being discontinued at App State, effective immediately.

This follows a review of the school's sports offerings in response to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The department is facing a 20 percent overall budget reduction for the coming fiscal year, which amounts to about $5 million. 

Scholarships for incoming and returning student-athletes will be honored, and the school has promised support to those who would like to transfer elsewhere.

But current athletics staff openings will not be filled, and the department is exploring additional personnel changes.

Director of Athletics Doug Gillin said in a news release that the long-term sustainability of App State sports programs is the primary concern.

Gillin points out that since moving to the Football Bowl Subdivision, App State has sponsored the most sports in the Sun Belt. He says the reductions will bring the school in line with most of its peer institutions.

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