Subject: Urgent Concern Regarding the Discontinuation of CWU Varsity Rugby Programs Dear CWU Leadership , We are writing to express our deep dismay and profound disappointment regarding your recent decision to withdraw support and sponsorship from the Central Washington University men’s and women’s varsity rugby programs. This decision not only disregards a program that has brought immense value to CWU, but it also delivers a serious blow to rugby and youth sports communities across Washington State and right here in Ellensburg. It diminishes your own reputation and compromises the values your institution claims to uphold. This decision is contradictory to the Universities State investment into world class athletic and recreational facilities. It also brings to a sudden halt a fantastic legacy of excellence and competition at the very highest level for student- athletes. By cutting these programs, you have violated the Mission and Core Values of CWU Athletics, which commit to: • Providing a values-based and championship culture,
• Promoting school spirit and pride, • Supporting academic excellence, • Fostering diversity and inclusion, • Creating exceptional student-athlete experiences, and • Deepening community engagement. Rugby at CWU has embodied every one of these values.
When we were evaluating universities with high-level rugby opportunities, CWU stood proudly among options like Boston College, Dartmouth, Texas A&M, Saint Mary’s, Penn State, and Washington as examples. The varsity rugby program was the reason CWU stood out—it placed the University on the national and global map. CWU is viewed as an attractive option for well- rounded, high-achieving young people from all of the USA and across the globe. The Rugby programs attract more out of state and international students than other Sports Programs. Central Washington is one of over 900 U.S. colleges that field men’s and women’s rugby teams. Yet CWU’s programs have consistently ranked among the top 10 nationally despite operating with limited coaching support compared to their peers. CWU rugby athletes have demonstrated excellence consistently performing at the highest level, and bringing a sense of pride and spirit to the whole CWU community. The men's and women's teams have the unique opportunity to compete regularly against powerhouse programs like Army West Point, UCLA, BYU, and the
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