Lauren Fuchs came to the University of Maryland-Baltimore County in January with hopes of becoming the coach that could turn the Retrievers into a competitive field hockey program. But Fuchs and the 14 players slated to return next season won?t get that chance.
UMBC recently announced it is disbanding the program just six years after returning to the Division I level. With the discontinuation of field hockey, UMBC will now have 19 varsity programs, 10 of which are for women.
UMBC athletic director Charles Brown said a desire to concentrate the school?s resources on a select group of sports led to the decision to eliminate field hockey. However, the impacted student-athletes that wish to remain at UMBC will have their scholarships honored through graduation.
“Our current budget deficit has caused us to make financial decisions that include adjustments in staffing, scholarships, operations and, unfortunately, the elimination of the field hockey program,” Brown said in a statement.
UMBC officials added that the America East Conference, which the Catonsville school is a member of, want its institutions to put their main efforts into developing their men?s and women?s basketball, lacrosse and soccer programs and be able to compete in those sports on a national stage.
Of all of UMBC?s varsity programs, arguably none had a harder time competing than field hockey. Since restarting in 2000 following a 13-year absence, the Retrievers have posted a 20-85 record, including 1-14 this season. The team, which was outscored, 63-12, this season, also went 0-23 in four seasons of America East competition.
“To be competitive in the America East Conference, the program would have needed significant additional funding,” Brown said in the statement. “Under the current and projected financial situation, I don?t believe we could go in this direction. Although we struggled on the field, the field hockey team brought a tremendous spirit to our program. We certainly appreciate their efforts, especially where they excelled in the classroom and as student leaders.”
