Signing Day Shocker

Yesterday, Maryland announced they intend to dump men's and women's swimming after the current season. Swimming is just one of several sports targeted for elimination. Thanks for the heads up, BG. Read more here.

The statement went on to note that Wednesday marks the beginning of the early signing period for some sports (swimming among them). Given that the future of some of Maryland’s teams hinges on the panel’s recommendations, Maryland officials decided against mailing out letters-of-intent to high school prospects poised to commit to Maryland, unsure that they’ll be able to offer those sports.

“The well-being of all student-athletes is our primary concern,” Anderson’s statement read. “Holding the letters is the only responsible action until final decisions are made.”

Maryland wouldn’t be the first ACC school to drop swimming. Clemson did so last year.

According to Groseth, the number of Division I swimming teams has declined from 183 to 159 in recent years but has grown in Divisions II and III.

“As you see with all this conference [realignment], there is a growing number of athletic directors who are using athletic departments as a bottom-line business model — not as part of an overall education model,” Groseth said.

Maryland lists 24 men and 26 women on its swimming rosters.

Click on the pic to see their trademarked "27 Sports 1 Team" claim...