Southeastern Louisiana eliminated its men’s tennis program, effective June 30, and department officials warned that more budget reductions could be on the horizon. With the removal of men’s tennis, the Lions now sponsor 15 Division I sports.

Coach Jason Hayes will remain to lead the women’s team after eight seasons coaching both programs. Southeastern Louisiana will honor the scholarship agreements for the 10 affected student-athletes and will assist those who wish to transfer.

“Given reduced resources, this was a difficult but necessary decision in order to maintain the strength and integrity of our remaining sport programs,” said Athletics Director Joel Erdmann. “Considering the magnitude of impending cuts, there was no option. The reality of the cuts and their impact on the lives of student-athletes and athletics department personnel is definitely coming to light.”

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal proposed massive budget cuts last winter, including $55 million in higher-education funding, in an effort to ease the state’s deficit.