Penn State Beaver Athletics is set to add new programs — men's and women's golf and cross country — to its offerings for the Fall 2026-27 athletic year.
MONACA, Pa. — The Penn State Beaver Athletics Department announced the addition of four new varsity sports — men’s golf, women’s golf, men’s cross country and women’s cross country — with competition officially set to begin in the Fall 2026 academic/athletic season.
This expansion underscores the campus’s commitment to providing robust opportunities for student-athletes, strengthening its athletics footprint and enriching campus life and community engagement.
“Today marks an exciting milestone for Penn State Beaver Athletics,” said Andy Kirschner, director of athletics at Penn State Beaver. “By adding men’s and women’s golf and cross country, we are broadening our offerings, elevating the student experience and opening new pathways for talented athletes to join our Rise and Roar family. We believe these programs will enhance our campus vibrancy, promote lifelong fitness and competition and align with our mission of excellence in athletics and academics.”
Each program will begin recruitment now to prepare for the Fall 2026 competition season. The addition brings enhanced opportunities for current and prospective students, builds on the strong athletics culture at Penn State Beaver and positions the institution to compete regionally and nationally, Kirschner said.
The decision to add these sports is reflective of several strategic priorities:
- Expanding opportunities for student-athletes across gender equity and program diversity.
- Enhancing campus engagement and athletic identity.
- Strengthening recruitment efforts and student retention through increased athletics involvement.
- Leveraging the beautiful natural terrain of the region for cross country and golf programs.
- Hiring of coaches, team staffing, scheduling and facility support are underway.
Prospective student-athletes, alumni and community members are encouraged to stay tuned for further announcements including coach introductions, try-out information and schedule details.
