Fort Hays State University suspends golf programs amid financial strain
The university will honor existing scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year as the athletic department navigates a $2.4 million cut in state funding
HAYS, Kan. — Fort Hays State University is suspending its men's and women's golf programs as the athletic department grapples with significant financial challenges, including a $2.4 million reduction in state funding. University President Tisa Mason said the decision is part of a broader effort to navigate the rapidly changing financial landscape of college athletics and stabilize the institution's long-term budget. The suspension is the first in a series of reductions aimed at safeguarding the school's core educational mission while preserving the overall competitive strength of Tiger Athletics.
Despite the immediate halt, the university will honor all existing golf scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year to support affected student-athletes. Athletic Director Lisa Goddard McGuirk praised the golfers and coaches for their representation of the university on and off the course, adding that the department will provide guidance during the transition. While administrators hope the athletes will choose to finish their degrees in Hays, they are prepared to assist any students who decide to transfer to continue playing college golf.
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