July 9, 2009

PULLMAN, Wash. - Washington State University released a 2009-10 budget update last month and as part of that plan, the Athletic Department has implemented steps to compensate for an anticipated $350,000 decrease in University support, in addition to a downturn in revenue and a 14 percent tuition increase for the 2009-10 academic year.

"Athletics is not immune to the economic challenges facing our University, or the challenges facing a great number of businesses across the country," said WSU Director of Athletics Jim Sterk. "In many ways it's like trying to hit a moving target and we will continue to make the necessary adjustments throughout the year.

The Athletic Department has enacted several cost-saving measures as it moves into the 2010 fiscal year that will reflect a positive change in the budget. Going forward the Athletic Department will reach its budget goal through a continuation and expansion of practices established over the past year. This includes, but is not limited to, evaluating travel squad sizes in all sports along with using ground transportation to competitions within 400 miles of Pullman. The printing of media guides for all sports will be greatly reduced as will the amount of professional development travel and international recruiting travel. There will also be a discontinuation of some internships and some positions will not be filled. Sterk added that this is a process that will continue over the next year while monitoring revenues and making adjustments to the budget accordingly.

"The changes we have made and continue to make will allow us to maintain all 17 of our athletic programs at this time," said Sterk. "This is a scenario the University began planning for almost a year ago, with President (Elson) Floyd instructing all WSU departments to re-examine all facets of our business.

"For the past year we have implemented cost-saving strategies, allowing us to continue performing at the highest levels while improving fiscal efficiencies," added Sterk. "As a member of our department recently said, `we feel we can be efficient, yet excellent.'"