Sports Sponsorship Changes For 2016-17

Murray State University announced today that it will no longer sponsor the sport of men's tennis, effective immediately.

"This has been a difficult period of time for the university as a whole," said Director of Athletics Allen Ward. "And the decisions being made across campus are not being made lightly."

"All areas of the university, including athletics, were evaluated as part of the university's response to the state's ongoing budget crisis." Ward shared, "It was my objective to provide the appropriate amount of cuts while minimizing the impact on the athletics program as a whole."

"There's nothing positive that ever comes from having to make decisions like this," Ward said. "It affects people I genuinely care for, especially Coach Purcell and his student-athletes. And I regret the timing of this decision considering what an emotional time it's been for Mel and the Racer family. But, the university's hands are tied, our options limited, and our obligations are steep."

"We are fully prepared to offer the appropriate services and support to assist the student-athletes affected as they transition both academically and athletically," affirmed Ward. "In addition, it's important to me personally to keep Coach Purcell involved with the program. He's an important part of the Racer family and always will be."

"I truly regret the position the university finds itself as a result of the budgetary reductions from the State," said Murray State President Bob Davies. "A number of programs that have been staples at Murray State are being affected, and unfortunately that includes sports sponsorship. With that being said, MSU men's tennis will always remain a treasured part of our history and tradition."

"The necessary timing of these difficult decisions doesn't lend itself to sensitivity, no matter how much I'd welcome that discretion," Davies said. "I support AD Ward's dedication to Coach Purcell and echo his sentiments about his importance to the Racer family."

Murray State University

Related Videos