Vanguard University Granted Full NCAA Division II Membership

Vanguard University Transition to NCAA Division II Announced

Costa Mesa, California – Vanguard University has officially been granted full NCAA Division II membership, set to take effect in the 2025-26 academic year. This significant shift comes after the university has been a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) since 1986.

Two years ago, Vanguard received provisional approval for NCAA Division II status. The university has impressively met the compliance, academic, and operational benchmarks required for the transition a year ahead of schedule, leading to the waiver of the final year of a three-year transition period.

Impact on the Athletic Program

The excitement around the transition is palpable, with Vanguard’s Athletic Director expressing optimism about aligning the program with small college athletics on the West Coast. Last year, Vanguard teams played an NCAA Division II schedule but were not eligible for postseason play, as they were still on probation. If they had been eligible, the women’s basketball and men’s soccer teams would have qualified for the Division II playoffs.

The women’s basketball team, under the leadership of coach Russ Davis, marked a successful season last year with an 18-8 overall record and a 16-4 record in the Pacific West Conference, securing second place. The transition now allows Vanguard teams to fully compete in the PacWest Conference and to participate in postseason events and national championships.

Benefits of the Transition

The move to NCAA Division II has already begun to positively impact recruitment and competitive dynamics for the athletic program. Reports indicate that ticket sales have doubled since the announcement of the transition. Vanguard’s NCAA Division II teams will include baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, track and field, and women’s volleyball. Additionally, other sports such as men’s volleyball and wrestling will continue to compete in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.

Facilities and Academic Growth

A key element of the university’s expansion is the newly opened Freed Center for Leadership and Service, a state-of-the-art facility that spans 61,000 square feet. This facility, made possible by a $10 million donation from the Freed family, includes modern athletic and kinesiology facilities. The gymnasium can accommodate up to 1,910 spectators and will host various sports events.

Vanguard’s kinesiology program is experiencing rapid growth and is now one of the university’s fastest-growing academic majors, with plans to introduce a graduate program and an adult education program in the future. The transition to NCAA Division II aligns well with these advancements and the overall development of Vanguard’s athletic programs.

Future Aspirations

Members of the women’s volleyball team, including senior Delaney Hill, have expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to compete at a higher level, indicating a desire to build a strong legacy in the NCAA. This transition is part of a broader 30-year campus expansion plan that was approved in 2019, signifying a transformative era for Vanguard athletics and its student-athletes.