As I get this column started, I’d like to remind you all of my Patreon community. That community is a big part of this website. If you’d like to become a member, you can go to https://www.patreon.com/nickobot.
The UW-Milwaukee Panthers have had a club football team since they established one in 2003, however, this past week the program received an email stating that it has to revoke its format as tackle football.
Supposedly the reason for the program to be disbanded is due to “Extensive safety and risk assessment conducted in collaboration with Sport Risk Standards.”
The team held a spring training and have been practicing since July. They’ve even posted their full 2026 season schedule.
The program ensures that there are always certified CPR, AED and First Aid members available during practices and games.
This is a very confusing situation. Student-Athletes are required to sign liability waivers acknowledging the risks associated with the sport prior to joining the program. UWM still has high risk club sports such as hockey and rugby.
As mentioned earlier, UWM established their club football program in 2003, which provides a great opportunity for the students. The University does provide a baseline level of funding, but the program relies heavily on community support for their budget.
According to the UWM Post, the club football Officer Board was scheduled to meet with the Dean of Students today to formally appeal the decision. If the meeting fails to produce a resolution, the board is preparing a student petition to challenge the ruling and to keep the program alive.