Varsity team to play at Krenzler Field starting in the 2016-2017 academic year

Cleveland State University has announced that it will establish a varsity men's lacrosse program and begin recruiting athletes to compete in the spring season of the 2016-2017 academic year.

The addition comes as a result of a program prioritization process headed by CSU Athletics Director John Parry that explored factors including funding, competitiveness and national trends. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the U.S. among high school athletes, and the CSU team will be the second NCAA Division I program in Ohio, joining Ohio State University.

"The addition of lacrosse brings to CSU a spectator sport that will build on the activities and excitement happening across the campus. We anticipate that students and the community will be attracted to Krenzler Field for a unique opportunity to see high-level competition," Parry said.

The prioritization process mirrors efforts across the university to best align resources with programs and activities that display strong growth potential. The review resulted in the determination that university funding for men's wrestling would be discontinued following the conclusion of the 2015-2016 season. The university will explore external funding sources that if secured, could allow continuation of the program.

"The decision to no longer fund wrestling at CSU was a very difficult one. The athletes, coaches and support staff have shown exceptional dedication to their sport and the university. We will be working to raise external funds, and if necessary, to provide transition support," Parry said.

Cleveland State University's Viking sports teams compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association NCAA Division I. The University sponsors programs for seven men's and nine women's intercollegiate sports. The Vikings are members of the Horizon League. More than 40 Viking student athletes have been selected as NCAA All-Americans in their respective sports.