Marshall reinstates the women’s swimming and diving program

The Marshall University Board of Governors has voted to reinstate the school’s women’s swimming and diving team. That reverses a decision made last month to cut the program.

University President Brad D. Smith says the move comes after new information raised potential Title IX concerns.

He says eliminating a women’s program could have put the university at legal risk, even with plans to expand opportunities elsewhere.

The decision follows a federal lawsuit filed by student-athletes, who argued cutting the team would widen the gender participation gap.

The swim and dive team will now continue alongside the addition of a new women’s STUNT program.