UC Davis is deeply committed to its student-athletes and to the communities that support them. We recognize that the decision to transition Equestrian from an NCAA Division I varsity sport back to club sport status after seven years is painful and disappointing for many. We respect and acknowledge those feelings.

The decision was not made lightly. It followed a comprehensive and deliberate review process that included detailed financial analysis and an independent assessment of the national competitive landscape conducted by an external firm with experience in intercollegiate athletics.

The independent external assessment is available here.

As part of its responsibility to ensure long-term sustainability and responsible stewardship of university resources, Athletics — like all campus units — must periodically evaluate programs. That review includes the competitive landscape, evolving NCAA opportunities, finances, long-range athletics strategy, and gender equity obligations.

An important consideration in making this decision is that Varsity Equestrian is among the most resource-intensive sports to sponsor, due to the specialized care, housing, veterinary services, and training required for horses. These operational realities were central to the university’s analysis. 

Another review factor included the broader intercollegiate landscape. Nationally, about 14 Division I institutions sponsor dual-discipline Equestrian under the National Collegiate Equestrian Association. In California, only one institution currently sponsors Equestrian at the NCAA varsity level, while multiple institutions offer competitive equestrian opportunities at the club level. These structural factors affect scheduling, travel, championship pathways, and long-term competitive sustainability.

UC Davis remains fully compliant with Title IX requirements. 

The decision to transition Varsity Equestrian is not a reflection of choosing favorites. In no way does it diminish the value of Varsity Equestrian or the impressive accomplishments of its student-athletes.

The competitive success of the Equestrian program, including conference championships and national recognition, makes anyone affiliated with UC Davis proud. The dedication and excellence of our student-athletes and coaches brought distinction to the university and remain a source of lasting pride. The sport has a long and meaningful history at UC Davis as a club sport, and it will continue in that form.

Most importantly, current Varsity Equestrian student-athletes will retain their financial aid, academic advising, tutoring, and other institutional support services through the completion of their undergraduate degrees, in accordance with university policy. Student-athletes who wish to continue competing at the NCAA varsity level at another institution will be supported in exploring transfer opportunities consistent with NCAA rules and university procedures.

We understand that decisions of this nature generate strong emotions. UC Davis respects the First Amendment rights of individuals and groups to engage in lawful, peaceful advocacy and to express their views publicly. At the same time, harassment, intimidation, threats or targeting of university employees or their families is unacceptable and contrary to the values of the UC Davis community. The exercise of free speech does not extend to personal attacks or inappropriate conduct. Vigorous debate must occur within the bounds of civility, respect and safety.

University leaders acted in good faith, consistent with established governance processes, ethical standards, and institutional responsibilities, and with the long-term interests of the broader university community in mind.

We remain deeply grateful to our Equestrian student-athletes and coaches for their commitment, resilience, and contributions to UC Davis Athletics. Their legacy will always be part of our university’s story.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did UC Davis decide to transition Equestrian from an NCAA varsity sport to a club sport?

The decision followed a comprehensive and deliberate review process that included financial analysis and an independent assessment of the national competitive landscape conducted by an external firm with experience in intercollegiate athletics. This review examined sustainability, long‑term alignment with the athletics program, and broader intercollegiate context. Based on several factors, the university determined that returning Equestrian to club sport status was the most responsible path forward.

2. Was this decision based on team performance or competitive success?

No. The decision was not related to performance or competitive results. UC Davis is proud of the Equestrian team’s accomplishments, including conference championships and national recognition. The decision was driven by structural and sustainability considerations, not by the team’s success or lack thereof.

3. Why was Equestrian evaluated differently from other sports?

Among many factors, varsity Equestrian is among the most resource‑intensive sports to sponsor at the NCAA level, largely due to the specialized care, training, and boarding required for the horses. These factors make the sport operationally distinct from most other NCAA programs and were central to the review.

4. Did UC Davis consider alternatives, such as donor funding, before making this decision?

The review process focused on long‑term sustainability and institutional responsibility. While philanthropic support is an important part of Athletics, varsity sport sponsorship decisions are based on programmatic viability, alignment with university priorities, and a commitment to Title IX compliance rather than short‑term or contingent funding sources.

5. How many Division I schools sponsor varsity Equestrian?

Nationally, only a limited number of Division I institutions — approximately 14 — sponsor dual‑discipline Equestrian teams under the National Collegiate Equestrian Association. UC Davis considered this national landscape as part of its evaluation.

6. Does this decision affect Title IX compliance?

No. UC Davis remains in compliance with Title IX requirements. This decision was made within that framework and is not a reflection of preference for one women’s sport over another.

7. How does this decision relate to other changes in UC Davis Athletics?

Sport sponsorship decisions are informed by multiple factors, including the competitive landscape, evolving NCAA opportunities, long‑range athletics strategy, finances, sustainability, and gender equity obligations. Decisions are not made in isolation and reflect the overall direction of the Athletics program.

8. Will current Equestrian student‑athletes lose their scholarships or academic support?

No. Current Equestrian student‑athletes will retain their financial aid, academic advising, tutoring, and other institutional support services through the completion of their undergraduate degrees, in accordance with university policy.

9. What support will be provided during the transition?

The university is committed to a thoughtful transition process. Athletics staff will work with student‑athletes to support their academic progress, well‑being, and eligibility for continued financial and academic resources.

10. What does club sport status mean for Equestrian at UC Davis?

In the 117-year history of UC Davis, Equestrian has been a Division I NCAA sport for seven of those years. Equestrian’s long and meaningful history at UC Davis will continue as a club sport. Club status allows students to continue participating competitively while operating under a different organizational and funding model than NCAA varsity sports.

11. Did UC Davis’ veterinary or agricultural programs influence this decision?

No. While UC Davis is home to internationally recognized programs in veterinary medicine and agricultural and environmental sciences, those academic strengths did not influence this decision. Animal care standards and academic programming remain unchanged.

12. Why did the announcement feel sudden to some community members?

Decisions of this nature involve confidential planning and analysis prior to public announcement. While this approach supports responsible decision‑making, the university understands that the timing felt abrupt to some and recognizes the impact of that experience.

13. Is the university open to revisiting or reversing this decision?

The decision reflects a completed review process and is final. The university’s focus is now on supporting student‑athletes and ensuring a smooth transition.

14. How does UC Davis view the legacy of the Equestrian program?

UC Davis is deeply proud of its Equestrian student‑athletes and coaches. Their dedication, excellence, and achievements have brought distinction to the university and will remain an important part of UC Davis’ Athletics legacy.