In 2017, Valparaiso University announced that it would be discontinuing its football program due to budgetary constraints. The decision was made after a review of the university’s finances showed that the football program was operating at a significant deficit.

The discontinuation of the football program was a difficult decision for the university, as football had been a part of the Valparaiso community for over 100 years. The program had been a member of the Pioneer Football League since its inception in 1993, and had enjoyed some success over the years, including a conference championship and a berth in the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs in 1995.

However, declining enrollment and increasing costs had put a strain on the university’s finances, and the football program was seen as a luxury that the university could no longer afford. In a statement announcing the decision, Valparaiso President Mark Heckler said, “This decision was not made lightly, but after careful consideration, it became clear that discontinuing football is the responsible choice.”

The discontinuation of the football program had a significant impact on the Valparaiso community, particularly on the players, coaches, and staff members who were affected by the decision. However, the university pledged to honor all athletic scholarships for football players who wished to continue their education at Valparaiso, and to support them in finding