Univ of Cincinnati will phase out Aid for Men's Swimming

As a former Student Athlete and Alumni of the University it saddens me to break this news, however not surprising given the state of Non-revenue/Olympic sports at our universities. April 7, 2009 CINCINNATI — The University of Cincinnati Department of Athletics will phase out financial aid from its men’s swimming and diving and men’s track & field/cross country teams beginning in the fall of 2009, Director of Athletics Mike Thomas announced today. The change in funding will take place over the next four years, until all existing financial aid commitments are fulfilled to current UC student-athletes participating in these sports. All commitments to prospective student-athletes who have signed National Letters of Intent will also be honored. As a result of these proactive moves, UC Athletics will save more than $400,000 annually once all aid is transitioned. The savings will assist the department to move towards a balanced budget. "As the Director of Athletics it is my responsibility to the University to maintain a competitive program while being both fiscally responsible and proactive in strategizing for the long term success of Bearcats Athletics" said Thomas. "This was a very difficult decision, but one we felt we had to make in this difficult economic climate. While scholarship funding will be eliminated for these sports, the teams themselves, and their complement of coaches will remain".