Less than three weeks after Arkansas cut its men’s and women’s tennis programs, the university’s athletic department will reinstate them ahead of the 2026-27 season.
According to a Thursday announcement from the university, donors provided “short-term” funding for both programs. Though Arkansas AD Hunter Yurachek says that this funding is not a permanent solution, and that “a significant endowment” is needed for the teams’ long-term health, it is seemingly sustainable enough for the near future.
Arkansas initially cited costs when it cut both programs just 20 days ago.
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported Wednesday that supporters of the tennis teams pledged around $5 million to help bring back the programs. Arkansas is seeking a $50 million endowment to help fund the team long-term. (The teams combine for about $2.5 million in annual operating costs.)
“We have engaged in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including alumni and donors, to explain our rationale and listen to their concerns,” Yurachek said. “We are thankful for our generous donors that have stepped forward in recent days.
