Frequently Asked Questions – Purdue Fort Wayne Athletics

What sports are being discontinued and how was that determined?
– Baseball and softball are being discontinued. The decision to eliminate both sports was necessitated by university-wide budget cuts totaling $6 million, consideration of necessary future investments for both sports including the facilities, and a complex evolving NCAA landscape.

What other cost saving measures were considered before deciding to discontinue baseball and softball?

– Staff member positions were eliminated as part of the university’s budget cuts. Further cuts across the board to all sports and several units in athletics, instead of eliminating baseball and softball, were fully considered and analyzed. However, it was determined after a painstaking review that this course of action was the best path to ensure PFW’s overall success at the NCAA Division I level. 

 

Why is this being done now?

– There is no good time to make a decision of this nature. However, implementing these steps now will allow student-athletes as much time as possible to consider their academic and athletic options. The softball transfer portal is open now, and baseball’s window will open on June 2. Additionally, the window will stay open longer for Purdue Fort Wayne baseball and softball student-athletes looking to transfer due to the programs being discontinued.

 

Will scholarships be honored for impacted student-athletes?

– Yes, current baseball and softball student-athletes and committed incoming student-athletes will have their scholarships honored through the completion of their degree.

 

Will Purdue Fort Wayne assist student-athletes who desire to transfer?

– Yes. Student-athletes should contact the Athletics Compliance Office if they would like to enter the NCAA transfer portal.

 

How many individuals are directly affected by this decision?

– 56 student-athletes (36 baseball, 20 softball) and 3 full-time coaches

Could private donations or fundraising reinstate baseball or softball?

– No, they could not, due to the annual costs associated with fully addressing the financial challenges to properly support our student-athletes.  

 

How will Purdue Fort Wayne engage donors to honor their wishes regarding gifts to the baseball and softball programs?

– The Office of Development and Alumni Engagement will assist all donors regarding affected gifts.

What are the financial savings for the university from discontinuing baseball and softball?

– It is estimated the university will save upwards of $1 million annually following the elimination both sports.

 

Will discontinuing these sports impact Purdue Fort Wayne’s Horizon League or NCAA Division I affiliation?

– No, Purdue Fort Wayne still has the required 14 sponsored sports for NCAA Division I affiliation.

 

Is the university considering the discontinuation of other programs?

– No, Purdue Fort Wayne is committed to facilitating the growth and success of an NCAA Division I athletic department, which requires 14 sports. 

Will Purdue Fort Wayne’s Title IX compliance be impacted by the elimination of baseball and softball?

– Purdue Fort Wayne’s Title IX compliance will not be impacted.