Changes to USC Aiken Tennis Program Announced

Aiken, SC (04/16/2019) — The University of South Carolina Aiken announced today that it will transition the men's and women's tennis programs to club sports, effective at the end of the 2019 spring season.

"This was a very difficult decision for the university, and a number of factors were given serious consideration beforehand, said Jim Herlihy, Director of Athletics.

"We have a great respect for the hard work and dedication of head coach, Steve Dahm, and all of our student-athletes and will work with them through this transition."

The decision comes after a thorough review of all sports offered at USC Aiken and an analysis of the demand for the sport, scholarship needs, and operational costs.

"USC Aiken's tennis programs have enjoyed a longstanding tradition of excellence. We regret the impact this will have on those students involved, but looking ahead we had to make some strategic decisions," said Dr. Sandra Jordan, chancellor.

The transition will impact 15 men and women student-athletes.

"They remain our priority," said Herlihy. "We will honor all athletic scholarships for the students should they decide to remain at USC Aiken to complete their degrees, which we hope they will do.

"While we understand that some may leave USC Aiken to continue their sport at another university, we have committed to offering them our full support in that process.

"We have wonderful student-athletes, coaches and athletics staff here at USC Aiken who make a tremendous contribution to campus life - in competition, in class and in our greater community. This is a difficult day for all of them, and for all of us."

This decision does not impact USC Aiken's affiliation with the Peach Belt Conference or NCAA Division II. By transitioning tennis to a club sport, the university is making way for the addition of more high-demand Division II athletics.

The university remains thankful for the many alumni, donors and community members who support Pacer Athletics.