UBC has announced the results of their review of 29 varsity sports teams.
24 of the teams have retained their varsity status, and five teams will lose their varsity status and be regulated to “competitive club.”
The four teams that are losing their varsity status are alpine skiing (men and women); nordic skiing (men and women); and softball (women).
The teams will still be able to use the Thunderbird name.
“This review has re-energized support for UBC’s teams,” said President Stephen Toope. “Our community has told us they want as many varsity teams as possible, and they want the opportunity to help us achieve our vision. We’ve heard them, and we look forward to seeing this translated into solid action in the months ahead.”
The teams that have retained their varsity statuses have been split into three groups:
Teams to receive enhanced support (seven)
Basketball: men and women
Football: men
Swimming: men and women
Volleyball: men and women
Teams to receive current support with some limited enhancements (thirteen)
Cross country: men and women
Field hockey: women
Golf: men and women
Ice hockey: women
Rowing: men and women
Rugby: men
Soccer: men and women
Track and field: men and women
Teams, each in unique situations, given more time to pursue hybrid funding (four)
Baseball: men
Field hockey: men
Ice hockey: men
Rugby: women
The new sport model will be launched in September 2015.
