FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Missouri Southern To Discontinue Men's Soccer Program Joplin, Mo.. -- Missouri Southern State University announced today the decision to discontinue Men's Soccer as a varsity sport at the school. With a stagnant state budget for higher education, the administration at Missouri Southern has had to look at the university’s finances closely and seek cost savings. The decision to cut men's soccer was one of those savings. Each player's scholarship will be honored through graduation if the student-athlete desires to stay. Players will be allowed to immediately transfer if they so desire. "It is with great regret that we are announcing that men's soccer is being cut as a sport at Missouri Southern," said Director of Athletics Sallie Beard. "We are in unprecedented economic times and we understand that decisions have to be made for the economic health of the department as well as the university. We also understand the frustration that our current team members and soccer alumni will feel. "We want them to know that we are grateful for the time, effort, and commitment made by not only the current players and coaches, but also by the soccer players and coaches who have worn the Green & Gold in the past. We are also thankful for the dedication and work ethic shown by head coach Kiley Cirillo who has been a valued part of the athletics department and who has also been a great teacher and role model for his players." “Missouri Southern has done a lot for me personally and for my career," Cirillo said. "I have nothing but the utmost respect for Missouri Southern and the people who work here every day. I have enjoyed my time here as both a player and as a coach.”
Missouri Southern has had men's soccer since
the 1976 season and were members of the MIAA from 1989-1999. The Lions
have been members of the Southwest Soccer Conference for the past five
seasons.
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