UNCW interim chancellor responds to athletic cuts

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Student athletes at UNCW got a chance to speak out at a meeting about recent cuts to the athletic department Thursday. It comes after the university announced it was cutting 4 sports next year, namely track and field, and adding sand volleyball.

It was an emotional meeting that lasted more than three hours. Cameras were not allowed inside but folks coming out saying they were keeping their heads high.

UNCW’s interim chancellor says the decision to get rid of track and field was a financial decision.
UNCW athletics have struggled financially for years. Not all of the students who came out to show support today were track athletes.

“We know what it feels like to just, one day, be bombarded with the possibility of being cut. Unfortunately, they haven’t even gotten the chance to really be prepared for it. It just kind of happened, and we’re all just here to show our support for them,” said Jenson Engen, a UNCW swim team member.

UNCW’s interim chancellor Bill Sederberg told reporters after the meeting he appreciated the chance to hear from students but is doubtful anything will change.

“I owe it to the athletic director and the team and our cabinet to talk about what we discussed today and either confirm or alter the decision in some way but it’s 99 percent a done deal in my opinion,” Sederberg said.

Just 2 years ago several sports appeared to be on the chopping block but then Chancellor Gary Miller eventually decided not to cut anything.