without a clear future. You have disregarded their wellbeing and sense of stability. You state that” belonging” underpins every students experience at CWU, and yet you’ve destroyed where these student athletes “belong”. This decision is not about just dollars and cents, but real people. It disrespects the legacy of coaches like Todd Thornley and Matthew Ramirez, who have built nationally respected programs. This move undermines CWU’s hard-earned reputation, and shatters a unique program that made this University truly special and in doing so has broken the trust of athletes, coaches, alumni, and countless supporters. The global rugby community, hundreds of thousands strong, has responded with disappointment and disbelief, not only by the short sighted decision ,but the brutal way in which it has been handled. Your vision statement aspires to create “a program with which people are proud to be associated.” This decision contradicts that vision. Strong leadership means making tough choices—but it also means listening to the community, respecting the values you claim to uphold, and showing integrity. None of that was evident here. The lack of transparency and consultation is not only disappointing, it’s totally unacceptable. This decision becomes even more unbelievable in the context of recent state investment of millions of dollars into CWU s athletic facilities and infrastructure. That funding included the intention to improve student retention”, expand program offerings, foster diversity, and strengthen community partnerships. Cutting varsity rugby, a program that has successfully fulfilled all of those objectives, is a direct contradiction of those goals. Rugby has actively utilized those upgraded facilities not only for training and competition, but for hosting youth development and out of state visiting teams . To eliminate rugby now undermines the rationale behind the state s support and risks leaving these impressive facilities underutilized and misaligned with an a large part central to their intended purpose. You had in front of you two stellar varsity programs—men’s and women’s rugby teams filled with loyal, spirited, dedicated, and proud CWU student- athletes. But you failed to see that rugby is not just a sport, it’s a powerful force for unity and good. For no justified reason you’ve erased an amazing legacy and turned away future generations of talented, diverse student-athletes and leaders who now will not choose this institution. We urge you to reflect deeply on this decision , a choice that undermines the core values and strength of Central Washington University. Yours Sincerely, Concerned CWU Rugby parents.
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator