In a heartfelt message to the Cougar Nation, Washington State University’s President, Kirk Schulz, reassured fans and supporters about the university’s unwavering commitment to excellence in collegiate athletics, despite the unprecedented changes in the world of college sports.
“I want to remind Coug fans that we’ll still have Division I athletics. We’ll still compete for championships and have football Saturdays. We’ll still show up every day on the court and in the classroom. The opponents will be different, and even if we don’t know the future of the Apple Cup, the resolute Cougar spirit hopefully will only grow stronger,” Schulz said in latest addition of WSU magazine.
Schulz began his message by acknowledging the whirlwind of changes that have swept through college sports in recent months. From the dramatic shifts in conference alignments to the groundbreaking Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) changes and the evolving transfer rules, the landscape has been evolving at an unprecedented pace.
One of the most significant changes has been the departure of all Pac-12 schools from the conference, except for WSU and Oregon State University. President Schulz emphasized the importance of charting their path forward, despite circumstances beyond their control. The university has taken legal action and established an advisory committee to secure its athletics future.
While WSU will not be able to sustain the same level of financial investment in athletics as in the past, Schulz assured fans that Cougar athletics will continue to thrive. WSU will remain committed to Division I athletics, competing for championships, and upholding its tradition of football Saturdays. Even though opponents may change, the unwavering Cougar spirit is expected to grow stronger.
President Schulz called on Cougar fans to continue their support. He stressed that support goes beyond financial contributions, encouraging fans to attend events and watch parties. The passion and enthusiasm of Cougar Nation for WSU’s various sports teams remain essential, even if new schools become their competitors.
The President acknowledged the deep sense of pride that many alumni and supporters take in seeing WSU teams compete, succeed, and gain a national presence. He emphasized that Cougar athletics and the unique Coug connection are integral to the special college experience at WSU.
Schulz also expressed concern about the excessive pursuit of dollars in college sports and the risk of becoming too professional.
“I think most would agree that intercollegiate athletics chasing dollars has become excessive. The problem is that it never stops. I’m not sure people really want college sports to become more professional,” President Schulz explained.
He highlighted the importance of student-athletes representing WSU, excelling both athletically and academically. He emphasized that their support is crucial to ensure that top-tier collegiate athletics continue to be central to the student experience at WSU.
“We will need people to continue to be supportive. And I don’t mean just financially; keep attending events and watch parties,” Schulz said. “I appreciate everybody who cheers on our excellent volleyball, soccer, football, baseball, and all teams. We shouldn’t stop just because we may be playing new schools.”
President Kirk Schulz’s message to Cougar fans underscores the university’s enduring commitment to student-athletes, academics, and the unique spirit of WSU. Despite the changing landscape of college sports, the Cougars remain resolute in their pursuit of excellence both on and off the field, united by the unwavering support of Cougar Nation and the motto “Cougs vs Everyone”.
Editor’s note: Portions of this web article were generated using ChatGPT. In this article ChatGPT was used to summarize the story presented and published by SWX NonStop Local Sports. SWX has taken steps to verify all information in the article for its accuracy
