Once a university-sponsored sport discontinued in 1991, Rice Athletics has announced its plans to bring back women’s diving in 2024.
In an ever-changing landscape in which universities are slashing sports (as recently as this week), Rice Athletics is officially doubling down on its commitment to athletics and growing its athletic footprint. The Owls announced this week the return of the women’s diving program in 2024.
Rice Women’s Diving was a sponsored sport at the university from 1975 to 1991 before it was discontinued. Meanwhile, the women’s swim team at Rice has been prolific, frequently finishing as high as possible in the standings with one caveat — winning titles is extremely challenging because the team did not score any diving points. Now that’s changing.
“Year after year, our swimmers have produced championship-caliber results and countless event champions, but the lack of diving points has prevented them from standing at the top of the podium as a team,” said Rice Athletics Director Tommy McClelland in a statement on Tuesday. “We are committed to winning our conference in every sport, and the return of the diving team is a vital step forward.”
You can read the full release here.
Practically, this decision raises a few interesting things as far as the trajectory of Rice Athletics as a whole. First, it demonstrates a commitment from the university to back sports and a tangible alignment between athletics and the university. Look no further than the school president Reginald DesRoches jumping into the pool himself!
The alignment between @RiceUniversity and @RiceAthletics in one picture.
Going to be some fun years ahead with @RDesRoches and @tmcclelland. #GoOwls https://t.co/xL0AteYrOo pic.twitter.com/VrzelV0hdc
— The Roost (@AtTheRoost) January 30, 2024
Additionally, it signals potential growth opportunities with that enhanced level of commitment. As the Owls move into the AAC and add to one athletics program it opens the door for further investment.
This decision wasn’t just about diving. It’s a first step in strengthening Rice Athletics and ensuring the Owls can do just what McClelland said in his statement above, compete to be “winning our conference in every sport.” That means more investment in swimming, track and field, soccer, football, baseball, etc. Across the board, things are looking up for Rice Athletics.
