April 17, 2025
Board of Trustees Central Washington University
400 E University Way Ellensburg, WA 98926
Dear Members of the Board of Trustees,
I am writing to express my deep disappointment and frustration regarding the recent decision by Athletic Director Dennis Francois to disband Central Washington University’s varsity rugby program, citing funding concerns. This short - sighted action not only undermines the integrity and competitive spirit of CWU Athletics, but also calls into question Mr. Francois’s ability to lead and advocate for the long -term success and growth of the university’s athletic programs. The CWU rugby program has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the field, earning national recognition, developing student - athletes of high character, and cultivating a sense of pride and community that reaches far beyond campus boundaries. To dissolve such a respected and accomplished program without pursuing more transparent, inclusive, and creative solutions to financial challenges is a failure of leadership. Athletic departments exist to serve student - athletes, not to cut them out of the equation when times are difficult. Mr. Francois’s decision reflects a lack of vision and commitment to the student body and to the university’s mission of supporting diverse and dynamic extracurricular opportunities. The handling of this situation has eroded trust in the administration and signals a dangerous precedent for how CWU supports its athletics moving forward. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the Board of Trustees to call for the immediate resignation of Dennis Francois. CWU deserves an athletic director who values its student - athletes, works collaboratively with stakeholders, and demonstrates the initiative and resourcefulness necessary to uphold and expand the legacy of Wildcat Athletics.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
John Marti CWU Rugby Alumni class of 2018 Johnhenrimarti562@gmail.com
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