Message from Interim Chancellor Ike Wheeler
Aviator Communities:
ASU-Newport feels privileged to have counted Aviator Athletics as a significant component of our institution since 2023. The inaugural sporting event was held on a balmy September afternoon that made ASUN history. Enthusiasm ran high, and so did optimism for the future of this endeavor. ASUN has been fortunate to encounter wonderful student athletes who have added significant flavor to our campus community and its culture. We have also garnered significant support from numerous individuals for this endeavor both in monetary support and in the human capital necessary to make undertakings such as this work. Athletics brought not only team spirit in our student athletes, but in ourselves. Several of us spend many fun hours near court or field supporting the athletic community.
The dream behind this journey was to provide young women and men the abilities to achieve teamwork, leadership skills, and renew their collective spirit as they pursued educational goals. Athletics, in its purest form, brings forth the greatness in everyone, whatever their skill level. It allows individuals to embrace activity and create an added sense of purpose. Across the nation, especially throughout the college landscape, athletics has provided a broad spectrum of opportunities as well as the ultimate in student engagement.
ASUN feels committed to offering the greatest opportunities for student success, including this foray into athletics. However, as an institution we must continually assess the financial strength of every program that falls under our umbrella as well as ensure its viability. In some instances, the results force actions that we consider painful, but necessary, to ensure the financial stability of our institution. This is such an instance. With the full support of the ASU System, as well as the ASUN Chancellor’s Executive Cabinet, I must report that effective July 1, 2026, the institution will discontinue both the Women’s Softball and Men’s Basketball Programs.
This decision was not entered into lightly but was the result of a great deal of research into costs, time involvements, human capital, as well as the future of these programs on our campuses. No institution wishes to discontinue any portion of its institutional community; however, sometimes harsh realities make such decisions inevitable as well as essential. We will be offering to our first-year student athletes academic scholarship opportunities for their second year, if they so choose. As always, students and staff are the ones impacted with such a decision. We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for the athletic staff as these developments unfold. My heart breaks for this action, but the overall financial health and sustained future of ASUN must be paramount in any plans and/or programs connected to the university.
I would be terribly remiss without remembering the host of people who have made this program work thus far. From coaches and assistant coaches to volunteers to the numerous fans and donors who have shown their support, we thank you. It is my sincere hope that the Aviator Spirit never dims, and that we remember the years of Aviator Athletics with fondness and nostalgia, while at the same time forging ahead to ensure continued opportunities for our students, staff and communities.
Ike Wheeler
Interim Chancellor