DAHLONEGA – The University of North Georgia (UNG) continues to advance a clear and intentional strategy to build the most competitive, value-added Division II athletics program in the nation, one that aligns with the university's mission, conference affiliation and long-term vision for student-athlete success.

As part of this effort, UNG regularly evaluates its intercollegiate athletic offerings to ensure alignment with NCAA Division II competition, the Peach Belt Conference, recruiting impact and the overall student experience. These evaluations help ensure the university's resources and investments are focused on where they create the greatest competitive and institutional momentum.

Following a comprehensive review, UNG will discontinue its varsity rifle program at the conclusion of the 2025-26 academic year.

Rifle is the only UNG sport that competes outside of the Peach Belt Conference and the Division II model, participating instead at the NCAA Division I level as an affiliate member of the Southern Conference since 2016. While the program has a unique history, it no longer aligns with UNG's strategic direction for athletics, does not advance the university's Division II competitive vision and is not a meaningful recruiting or development pathway for the Corps of Cadets or the broader university.

"This decision was not made lightly," said Athletics Director Mary Rob Plunkett. "However, we have a responsibility to take a disciplined, forward-looking approach to our athletics program. Our focus is on building programs that strengthen our Division II identity, elevate our competitiveness within the Peach Belt Conference and create the greatest value for both our student-athletes and our institution."

The university will honor the athletics scholarships of impacted student-athletes through the completion of their undergraduate degrees at UNG, maintaining their current level of financial aid. The athletic department will also provide transitional support and guidance to affected student-athletes and staff.

FAQ

How and why was decision made?
The University is continuously evaluating operations to ensure we meet the evolving needs of students, faculty and staff. After careful and ongoing review of our current athletic and Cadet Leadership Academy goals, we have made the difficult decision to eliminate the rifle program. We continuously evaluate our athletic program offerings and sponsoring rifle does not align with the strategy and vision to deliver the most competitive Division II athletics program or the Corps of the Future.

How many student-athletes and coaches are impacted by this decision?
Eight student-athletes that will have remaining eligibility after the 2025-26 season and one coach.

What happens to student-athletes on the rifle team?
The university is committed to helping those who are impacted by this decision by offering support, resources and assistance to determine their next steps, including honoring their athletic financial aid packages should they stay at North Georgia or assisting with transitions to other universities. The athletics program will honor the scholarships of the impacted student-athletes on the roster through their undergraduate years at UNG.

Can this decision be appealed or reconsidered?
No. This decision was made with the full support of university leadership. This decision is not a reflection of team/individual performance, but part of an organizational change aimed at aligning UNG's limited resources and structure to support the mission and strategic priorities of the university.

I have more questions. Who can I contact?
Please direct additional questions to Athletics.Compliance@ung.edu.