University of Olivet Drops Swimming and Diving Programs
The University of Olivet announced last week that it is discontinuing its Division III swimming and diving programs.
The cuts are effective immediately. They reflect what the Michigan institution called a, “multi-year review of program sustainability and participation.” To those ends, the cuts affect just seven student athletes, with whom the University says it will work to support during the transition to pursue swimming opportunities elsewhere.
“Olivet is committed to providing strong, sustainable athletic programs that serve our student-athletes well. After careful evaluation, it became clear that continuing to sponsor swimming and diving would not allow us to meet those standards moving forward,” Vice President and COO Ryan Shockey said in a press release. “We are grateful for the commitment of our student-athletes and coaches, and this decision does not diminish the impact they have had on our program and campus community.”
Also from the release:
The decision reflects ongoing challenges related to roster sizes and aging facility limitations that have impacted the program’s ability to operate at a level consistent with the University’s expectations for the student-athlete experience.