Grand Canyon University Cuts Men’s Volleyball Amid Revenue-Share Changes

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Grand Canyon University (GCU) has cut its men’s volleyball program in a shocking move that has devastated players and coaches. The announcement was made during an optional meeting on April 28, just days after the team had completed its season and achieved a Final Four appearance in 2024.

The decision caught both players and coaches off guard, as they were informed only minutes apart and denied the opportunity to discuss the matter together. Players expressed feelings of betrayal and confusion, despite the university claiming the cuts were necessary to adapt to a ‘rapidly evolving college athletics landscape’.

According to the players, GCU Athletic Director Jamie Boggs provided little explanation during the meeting, stating there was ‘no good reason’ for the decision at that time. However, it remains unclear why the program was targeted, especially given its past success and financial contributions to the university.

GCU stated in a press release that the cut allows the school to focus on its other 20 athletic programs amidst changes in college sports, particularly the House v. NCAA settlement, which introduces new compensation requirements. But players like junior Jaxon Herr voiced concerns that smaller programs are being sacrificed for more profitable sports like basketball and football.

Assistant coach Bryan Dell’Amico also voiced concern, highlighting that GCU is among the first schools to utilize this justification for eliminating Olympic sports as departments seek to realign resources.

The team, which had budgeted only $300,000 for the 2025 season, brought in significant revenue through ticket sales, with attendance often second only to men’s basketball. Despite this, the administration has chosen to cut funding for a program they admit was financially viable.

A social media campaign has emerged among supporters of the volleyball team, including a petition that has already gathered over 20,000 signatures. Herr stated, ‘I think it’s so cool that we have so many people that are supporting us.’ Meanwhile, players are left to decide whether to enter the transfer portal or continue their education at GCU without a volleyball program.

As investigations continue and potential legal action is being discussed, athletes and supporters await the outcome of the situation, hoping that their voices will prompt a reconsideration of the university’s decision. ‘At this point, we’ve all kind of realized that the program isn’t coming back,’ said freshman Connor Oldani. ‘It’s a tough pill to swallow.’