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Cal Baptist University Cuts Wrestling, Track & Field in Strategic Conference Shift

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 3rd 2026 at 9:14 GMT by on3.com

Cal Baptist University Cuts Wrestling & More in Strategic Shift Towards Big West Conference Entry

California Baptist University (CBU), a rapidly rising athletic program with aspirations of joining the Big West Conference, has announced a difficult but necessary decision: eliminating its wrestling program along with men's and women’s track and field programs. This move, effective immediately, is part of a broader restructuring effort designed to align CBU’s athletic profile with the requirements for full membership in the Big West, a significant step up from their current status as an affiliate member in basketball.

The announcement, made on May 15, 2024, sent shockwaves through the wrestling community and left athletes and coaches reeling. While the decision is framed as strategic and financially driven, it highlights the increasingly complex challenges facing mid-major athletic programs striving for greater conference recognition and stability.

Why Wrestling & Track? The Big West Requirements

CBU’s ascent in collegiate athletics has been remarkable. Founded in 1950 as California Baptist College, the university transitioned to a four-year institution in 2006 and quickly built a competitive athletic program, particularly known for its men's basketball team which reached the NCAA tournament several times. However, joining the Big West Conference requires adherence to specific criteria, including offering a minimum number of sports across both genders. The conference mandates that institutions offer at least six women’s sports and seven men’s sports. CBU currently meets this requirement but needs to adjust its offerings to better align with the Big West's expectations regarding sport participation numbers and overall athletic profile.

According to Athletic Director Tyler Halstead, wrestling and track & field were identified as programs that could be discontinued without significantly impacting the university’s core mission or hindering other key athletic initiatives. Halstead emphasized that this wasn't a reflection of the performance or value of these sports but rather a pragmatic response to financial realities and conference requirements. He stated in an official release, "This was not an easy decision, as we deeply value all our student-athletes and programs. However, aligning with Big West Conference standards is crucial for the long-term success and stability of CBU Athletics."

The Financial Realities & The Cost of Wrestling

While specific financial figures haven't been released publicly, the cost of maintaining a Division I wrestling program is substantial. It includes coaching salaries, facility maintenance, travel expenses, recruiting costs, and equipment. Wrestling programs are often considered among the most expensive to operate due to the demands of competition and the need for specialized facilities. Track & field also carries significant operational costs related to travel and equipment.

The decision comes at a time when many universities across the country are grappling with rising athletic department budgets and decreasing revenue streams. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these financial pressures, forcing institutions to make difficult choices about program viability. While CBU has experienced growth in recent years, aligning with Big West standards requires careful resource allocation.

Impact on Athletes & Coaches

The immediate impact of the decision is devastating for the affected athletes and coaches. Wrestlers, track and field athletes, and their families are facing uncertainty about their athletic futures. The university will provide support to impacted student-athletes, including assistance with transferring to other institutions and exploring alternative academic pathways. Coaches will receive severance packages as outlined in their contracts.

The wrestling program, in particular, has seen significant growth under head coach Jason Moen. CBU’s wrestling team has consistently improved its standing in the Pac-12 Conference (where they competed as an affiliate member) and produced several All-Americans. The sudden termination of the program leaves a void for these athletes who have dedicated years to their sport.

Looking Ahead: Big West Membership & Future Plans

CBU’s goal remains full membership in the Big West Conference, which would elevate its athletic profile significantly and provide greater stability. The university anticipates formally applying for membership within the next year or two. The elimination of these sports is a crucial step towards achieving that goal.

Beyond this immediate restructuring, CBU plans to explore opportunities to potentially reinstate some programs in the future, although no timeline has been provided. The university also intends to continue investing in its core athletic programs and pursuing excellence across all disciplines. The focus will be on building a sustainable and competitive athletic department that aligns with the university’s overall mission and values.

Contextualizing CBU's Situation within Collegiate Athletics

CBU’s situation is not unique. Across the nation, universities are facing increasing pressure to balance athletic ambitions with financial realities. The rise of conference requirements, coupled with the escalating costs of running Division I programs, forces institutions to make tough choices about which sports to prioritize. This trend underscores a broader conversation within collegiate athletics regarding sustainability, athlete welfare, and the role of sports in higher education. While CBU’s move is undoubtedly painful for those directly affected, it reflects a larger shift in the landscape of college athletics as universities strive for greater stability and recognition on the national stage.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the situation at Cal Baptist University. Let me know if you'd like any adjustments or further elaboration!