Western Washington University officials announced its football program is ending, "following a careful evaluation to determine how best to ensure the excellence of all University intercollegiate sports."

"I have made this decision with a heavy heart as I am well aware of the profound consequences it has on the student-athletes on the football team, their dedicated and hard-working coaches, and on our passionate supporters on campus, in the community and region and on our alumni," said Western President Bruce Shepard.

Western University, a member of the NCAA Division II Great Northwest Athletic Conference, began playing football in 1903 and finished with a 383-380-34 record in 98 seasons.