In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through college athletics, Saint Francis University has announced its transition from NCAA Division I to Division III, set to take effect in the 2026-27 academic year. The decision comes shortly after the Saint Francis men’s basketball team made its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1991, making the timing of this shift even more unexpected.

Why Saint Francis Moves to Division III

The university’s Board of Trustees cited increasing challenges within NCAA Division I athletics, including issues related to the transfer portal, NIL (name, image, and likeness) policies, and rising financial pressures, as the driving factors behind the move. Very Rev. Joseph Lehman, chair of the board, explained that the changing landscape of college sports made it necessary to reassess the university’s athletic future.

Impact on Student-Athletes and Campus Life

By shifting to Division III, Saint Francis University aims to reduce travel demands on student-athletes and provide a more balanced academic-athletic experience. Very Rev. Malachi Van Tassell, president of the university, emphasized that this move aligns with the institution’s mission to focus on academics while still fostering competitive sports programs.

Saint Francis Follows the University of Hartford’s Lead

This transition mirrors a similar move by the University of Hartford, which stepped down from Division I to Division III after making its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. In 2021, Hartford’s Board of Regents made the switch to prioritize the overall student experience over the growing financial and competitive pressures of Division I sports.

What’s Next for Saint Francis Athletics?

While Saint Francis moves to Division III, the university remains committed to offering competitive athletic programs while ensuring student-athletes can thrive academically and socially. This transition is expected to create a stronger community-driven approach to athletics while keeping sports accessible to a wider range of students.

As Saint Francis prepares for its Division III future, the move raises questions about whether other mid-major schools will follow suit in response to the evolving NCAA landscape.