Neumann Leaving the Atlantic East for the Middle Atlantic Conference in 2026-27

[Kuiper]

Another "Conference Shuffle" announcement.

Neumann Moving to the Middle Atlantic Conference in 2026-27

On Thursday, the Middle Atlantic Conferences (MAC) Executive Committee Chair and Misericordia University President Dan Myers announced the addition of Neumann University as the 17th member of the MAC beginning in the 2026-27 academic year.

"On behalf of the presidents of the member institutions of the Middle Atlantic Conference, it is my honor to welcome Neumann University to the conference," said President Myers. "Neumann is well positioned within the MAC footprint and brings a holistic approach to developing student-athletes that fits well with the MAC values. We look forward to competing against the Knights beginning in 2026-27."

The Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) is a group of diverse colleges and universities dedicated to the NCAA Division III philosophy, emphasizing the importance of athletics in the overall growth and success of students. With a long-standing history, the MAC provides a competitive athletic environment that fosters student-athlete development, academic achievement, and the values of good sportsmanship, preparing them for success in all aspects of life.

Neumann already competes in the MAC as an affiliate member in ice hockey, one of the university's established athletic programs. The Knights won the Division III national championship in 2009, and the MAC's strong commitment to hockey supports the development of Neumann's men's and women's programs, which currently include more than 80 student-athletes across varsity and club levels.

Over the past 15 years, Neumann has upgraded its athletic facilities, with more improvements planned. Most notably, the university has partnered with Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education to facilitate the construction of the Ed Snider Ice Arena on campus. The building will include two ice rinks, one serving as the home for the university's ice hockey teams and another designated as the official home for Snider programming in Chester and Delaware counties. The rinks will have seating for 1,000 and 300 spectators, respectively.

"The MAC includes institutions that share Neumann's academic values, size, and student-centered approach," said Dr. Chris Domes, Neumann's president. "This move ensures our student-athletes continue to compete at a high level while thriving in an environment that mirrors our mission."

The Knights will bring a slate of nine men's and 10 women's NCAA teams to the MAC, including baseball, basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, volleyball and more. In the last year, the Knights have won conference titles in soccer and basketball. More than 350 varsity athletes participate in Neumann's athletic programs.

"The Middle Atlantic Conference is thrilled to welcome Neumann University," said MAC Executive Director Megan Morrison. "Neumann's commitment to holistic student-athlete development, rooted in their strong institutional values, aligns perfectly with the MAC's emphasis on academic excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement. This partnership will enrich our conference and reinforce our commitment to the well-rounded development of student-athletes."

John Krimmel, director of athletics and recreation at Neumann, is excited about the collaboration. "At a time when many institutions are scaling back athletics," he explains, "Neumann is investing in growth. Joining the MAC strengthens our visibility, competitive opportunities, and institutional reputation across a broader geographic region."

Representatives of the MAC and Neumann University will hold a press conference about how Neumann will integrate into its new athletic home on Tuesday, April 22, at 11 a.m. in the Mirenda Center.

[Hopkins92]

I don't claim to be a historian or anything, but doesn't it seem like there are a lot more of these going on than ever before? By a significant amount?

And I don't think you can just point to closures.

Thoughts?

[jknezek]

I don't claim to be a historian or anything, but doesn't it seem like there are a lot more of these going on than ever before? By a significant amount?

And I don't think you can just point to closures.

Thoughts?

As far back as I can remember D3 has always been pretty fluid in terms of conferences. Some conferences are more stable than others of course, but as the largest division in the NCAA, with 340 or so schools, movement is pretty much guaranteed.

[Hopkins92]

Maybe it's just that you are doing such a good job covering it. Thanks for the explainer.