North Dakota Athletics announces discontinuation of tennis programs

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (UND ATHLETICS)– The University of North Dakota announced on Thursday, April 30, 2026 the discontinuation of its men’s and women’s tennis programs effective immediately.

“This is a difficult day for our department and our community,” said Director of Athletics Bill Chaves. “Over the past five years, Division I athletics has experienced more change than the previous 30 years combined. This has required us to adapt to a new landscape by reinventing the way we operate our athletic department as well as analyzing the existing resources we have and reallocating those resources moving forward. We are grateful for everything our student-athletes have contributed to our campus and remain committed to supporting them through this transition.”

Title IX compliance continues to be a central component of any decision such as this and remains a guiding priority for UND’s long-term athletics planning. An evaluation process assessed participation opportunities by gender, roster management practices, proportionality relative to undergraduate enrollment and the sustainability of providing equitable, competitive and developmental support across all varsity programs.

All current tennis student-athletes will retain their scholarships for the remainder of their academic careers should they choose to stay at UND. The athletic department will also provide personalized assistance for any student-athlete who wishes to pursue transfer opportunities. In addition, UND will continue to honor the legacy of the tennis programs through the UND Letterwinners Association Athletics Hall of Fame.

UND will now offer 15 varsity sports programs across three athletic conferences.