Vermont will eliminate its baseball and softball teams after the 2009 season, attributing the decision to a projected $1.1 million gap between revenues and expenses in 2009-10.

The university cut 6.5 percent of its subsidy to athletics, and scholarship and other costs are expected to rise, causing the shortfall that led to the decision to drop the two sports.

The school will honor existing scholarship agreements with the 43 student-athletes (15 in softball, 28 in baseball) affected by the decision, should they choose to stay at Vermont.

“This was an exceptionally difficult decision to make, knowing the history and tradition of these programs and the impact that it will have on the staff and student-athletes involved,” said Athletics Director Robert Corran. “They have always represented Vermont and their sports in exemplary fashion and have been positive contributors to the quality of life on our campus. Unfortunately, we are facing significant financial challenges which can only be addressed through a major reorganization of our program.”

The school chose to eliminate the baseball and softball after a review of all sports that included projected cost savings, gender equity/Title IX issues, competitive aspirations, facilities, weather, scheduling and travel requirements as well as NCAA and conference membership requirements.

Both teams will participate in the 2009 season.