Since it was announced on Monday that Duquesne University will be cutting their men’s swimming program after the current season, a web presence calling for donations and support has cropped up online.
According to a press release, Duquesne will be annually reallocating $1 million of Athletic Department money to a “core group of sports” that no longer includes men’s swimming, baseball, men’s golf, and wrestling.
An online presence has already been established in the form of a donations website, and Facebook Group.
It is rumored that the program needs $2 million to save itself – but aside from monetary donations, Dave Sheets has asked for support in the form of a letter-writing campaign, and a grace period for recruiting his swimmers until after Championship season.
There is one comment/point I’d like to make. This excerpt from the press release caught my attention:
“The decision follows an extended period of comprehensive research,” Amodio said. “Although it is an extremely difficult move, it will place the athletics program in the very best position to be successful in the future,” he said, adding that this will better align the programs offered with the department’s operational budget and donor base.
Translation: We’re keeping the sports that have the most active donors. This just reinforces the importance of having a strong alumni donor base. I believe that achieving a high percentage of ‘active’ alumni is important to send a message to any athletic department. Teams in fear of the chop, take notice of this wording.
Organize a swim team reunion and bring your check books, ask the coach if there are any immediate costs that need alleviating. As a recent graduate, I understand that money is tight – but by staying involved and giving what you can, your dollars do more than pick up the tab at Olive Garden, they send a message to the department that you want to stay involved.
