Albany State University (ASU) continues to increase operational effectiveness and efficiency in all areas, including our athletics program. This academic year, ASU athletics will realize a planned reduction of an estimated $600,000. Budget reductions and realignment of resources began in the 2018 – 19 academic year.

The University has implemented a plan to strategically realign resources to build a sustainable athletics program. Reductions across multiple sports included decreases in scholarships, operational expenses and personnel. One of these unfortunate but necessary reductions will include the discontinuation of ASU’s men’s cross country and men’s golf programs. These programs will be discontinued at the conclusion of the 2019-20 academic year.

Albany State University will sponsor 11 sports programs and continue to be a leading member of NCAA Division II, the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and the Peach Belt Conference. These programs include football, baseball, men’s track and field, women’s track and field, women’s cross country, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, volleyball, softball, tennis, soccer.

“We understand the impact this has on our student-athletes, coaches and the department. We are grateful for the student-athletes who have committed themselves to our athletics program and University,” said ASU Interim Athletics Director Jackie Nicholson.

Maintaining high academic standards, providing students with an excellent athletic experience and competing for conference championships remain the primary goals of the ASU athletics department, Nicholson said.

 “This is a tough decision that will allow ASU to realign resources in support of our overall athletics program,” said ASU President Marion Ross Fedrick. “We will continue to focus on building champions in the classroom and on the fields and courts of competition. We appreciate the commitment of our coaches and all athletics personnel impacted and are grateful for their service to our students, institution and the Albany community.”