August 26, 2025

Vanguard University Advances to Full NCAA Division II Membership

News Summary

Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California, has been granted full membership in NCAA Division II, effective for the 2025-26 academic year. This marks a significant transition from its previous status in the NAIA, successfully achieving all necessary requirements ahead of schedule. With this new status, Vanguard teams can participate fully in NCAA postseason events and national championships. The recent opening of the Freed Center further supports this transition, providing state-of-the-art facilities that enhance athletic recruitment and student engagement, preparing the university for future competitive endeavors.

Costa Mesa, California – Vanguard University Granted Full NCAA Division II Membership Starting 2025-26

Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California, has received full membership status in the NCAA Division II, set to begin in the 2025-26 academic year. This transition comes after the university had been part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) since 1986, marking a significant shift in its athletic program.

The NCAA confirmed Vanguard’s membership after the university successfully completed the requirements set during its provisional approval phase, which began two years ago. Notably, Vanguard achieved this transition a year ahead of schedule by meeting all compliance, academic, and operational benchmarks. Previously, while on probationary status, Vanguard teams were unable to compete for NCAA postseason opportunities, although they could participate in Division II-level competitions.

Athletic Director Jeff Bussell stated that this move is timely, reflecting the current dynamics of small college athletics particularly on the West Coast. With this new status, Vanguard teams are now recognized as full competitors in the PacWest Conference, thus becoming eligible for both postseason events and national championships within NCAA Division II.

Enhanced Facilities and Team Performance

The recent opening of the Freed Center for Leadership and Service, an impressive 61,000-square-foot facility, has further bolstered Vanguard’s athletic offerings. This center includes state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to kinesiology, weight training, and various other athletic activities. The Freed Center is expected to enhance both recruitment efforts and engagement among current students, with the advanced athletic resources funded largely by a significant $10 million donation from the Freed family, contributing to a greater total of $16 million raised for its construction.

Under NCAA guidelines, several Vanguard teams, including men’s soccer and women’s basketball, have shown competitive promise. If they had been eligible for the playoffs during their probationary year, they would have qualified, as evidenced by the women’s basketball team achieving an outstanding record of 18-8 and securing a second-place finish in the Pacific West Conference.

As the transition becomes official, Vanguard’s athletic offerings will expand to include various NCAA Division II sports such as baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, track and field, and women’s volleyball. Other teams like men’s volleyball and wrestling will participate in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.

Preparation for Future Competitions

The athletes have expressed a mix of excitement and determination, with senior student-athlete Delaney Hill from the women’s volleyball team sharing that the transition from NAIA to NCAA has brought a new level of intensity and competitive pace. With the opening of the Freed Center, Vanguard is well-positioned to develop its athletic programs further and support student-athletes in their pursuits, both academically and athletically.

Looking ahead, Vanguard University will utilize the Freed Center to host various sporting events, including basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and stunt cheerleading, establishing itself as an emerging competitor in NCAA athletics. The new facility is equipped with advanced tools like therapy tubs and specialized labs aimed at enhancing the kinesiology department’s capacity, contributing to preparing students for careers in health professions and beyond.

Conclusion

As Vanguard University prepares for its membership transition to NCAA Division II in the 2025-26 academic year, it positions itself to elevate its athletic programs and enhance student engagement. The newly constructed Freed Center stands as a testament to this commitment and will play a critical role in the university’s future in collegiate athletics.

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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH

The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.

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