Back in 2016, Mississippi College announced they had completed their three-year transition into a full-fledged Division II program after previously competing at the Division III level.
On the surface, that would seem like a solid commitment to athletics, but my how things can change drastically in just a few short years.
Less than a year ago, Rice receivers coach Mike Kershaw was hired to turn around the program, and unfortunately he's not going to get a fair shake to do that.
The college announced today that the Board of Trustees has made the decision to not only change their name to Mississippi Christian University, but to also cut the football program.
MC finished with some momentum to end the season, with wins in two of their last three games, losing what we now know is the last game in school history by just six points to Delta State this past Saturday.
According to the school, they're calling the decision a "strategic realignment of athletics," that is meant to "further allow the institution to further its commitment to excellence in intercollegiate Division II play across its remaining 17 sports and pursue needed facility upgrades."
“Discontinuing our football program is a difficult decision," the school shares in their release.
"We acknowledge the program’s legacy and the deep connection to he many student-athletes, alumni and supporters of the football program. I want to emphasize that we will always consider them as part of our MC Family,” MC Athletic Director Kenny Bizot shared.
“We will support our current student-athletes as they seek to continue their education at MC as well as those who wish to transfer.”
Anytime a school decides to make this move, we like to share a brief note of the staffers that are affected.
If there's a silver lining to be found here, it's that the timing of the decision will allow each of these guys an opportunity to find a landing spot.
As always, stay glued to The Scoop for the latest.