California Baptist University Restructures Lancer Athletics; Discontinues Three Athletic Programs Ahead of Big West Entry
1/2/2026 12:35:00 PM | General, Men's Golf, Men's Swimming and Diving, Wrestling
Changes will take effect at the end of the competitive season
RIVERSIDE --- In response to the evolving intercollegiate athletic landscape, California Baptist University announced today the discontinuation of three Lancer Athletic programs–wrestling, men's golf, and men's swim and dive. The changes will take effect at the conclusion of the 2025-26 competitive season.
We have closely monitored the shifting landscape of intercollegiate athletics that has affected institutions across the nation, said Micah Parker, Ph.D., Vice President for Athletics. While we had hoped to continue offering our full slate of athletic programs in this new environment, it has become clear that changes are required to realize the university's goal of achieving greater competitive excellence that the new Division I era demands.
Parker continued: As the university looks toward competing in the Big West Conference starting in July 2026, it was necessary to discontinue some athletic programs in order to offer remaining student-athletes and teams the best chance to succeed.
The decision was not made lightly, according to Parker.
Considerable thought and prayer went into this decision, said Parker. We take seriously the responsibility of supporting our student-athletes, and we are committed to walking beside those impacted as they navigate next steps for their academic and athletic careers.
To support those who are affected by this change, the university will assist with the transition by honoring their athletic financial aid packages if they choose to remain at CBU or by helping those who wish to transfer to another university with the process of transferring.
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