Towson U Athletic Director Recommends Cutting Mens' Soccer, Baseball

In an effort to cut down on costs and get in line with Title 9 regulations, Towson University's Director of Athletics Michael Waddell has recommended cutting the mens' baseball and soccer teams.

The recommendation report, which is attached to this article, also calls for the reinstatement of the mens' tennis team.

In a statement, university President Maravene Loeschke said an external review of the recommendation will be conducted in the context of financial stability, competitiveness and compliance, three issues facing the athletics program. Loeschke said she will make her decision about the recommendation in mid-November.

"I recognize how disappointing and difficult these discussions are for our student-athletes, alumni, families, supporters, and the entire campus community," Loeschke said in the statement. "In these challenging economic times, it is sometimes necessary to recommend approaches that, although troubling to many, may be in the best interest of long-term stability."

Waddell notes in his report that the cuts will save the university $800,083 annually by fiscal year 2018. The report also states that discontinuing the teams will "achieve the necessary shifts in student-athlete head count to assure non-discriminatory and proportional participation opportunities for both men and women" as mandated by Title 9.

Title 9 is a law that prohibits descrimination against women in education, including athletic participation, according to the National Women's Law Center.