“It is highly disappointing to lose a member institution under any circumstance, and this is no exception,†WAC commissioner Jeff Hurd said. “Unfortunately the movement of an institution from one conference to another has become an all too frequent reality of the intercollegiate athletics culture for the past several years.
“The WAC and CSU Bakersfield have had a mutually beneficial relationship, and both have grown significantly as a result. I have the utmost respect for President Horace Mitchell as well as his leadership team. They have been fully engaged in the WAC since day one and have handled this situation as honestly and professionally as possible.
“The WAC will continue to move forward in a positive manner, will work to ensure a smooth transition for CSU Bakersfield until its departure on July 1, 2020 and will work diligently to ensure for the continued growth and success of its membership.â€