Saint Francis University Announces a Move from NCAA Division I Athletics to Division III Athletics. Read the press release.
Building a Stronger Community Through Mission, Academics, and Athletics
A message from our President, Father Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R.
Guided by our Catholic and Franciscan values, we are deeply committed to ensuring a supportive, enriching, and transformative experience for every student—on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
With this unwavering focus, I proudly announce that Saint Francis University's Board of Trustees has voted to direct the University to take the steps necessary to reclassify SFU's athletics program within the NCAA from Division I to Division III.
This decision prioritizes the well-being of our student-athletes, aligning us with institutions that share our values and focus on living their mission. With reduced travel demands, our students will have more time to focus on academics, athletics, and personal growth—striking a healthy balance in all areas of life.
We have compiled several resources, including a transition timeline and a detailed FAQ page, to help answer questions about the reclassification process. We're here to help and encourage current student-athletes and recruits to seek clarity on individual circumstances.
Student, Family & General Inquiries: athletics@francis.edu
Press/Media Inquiries: University Communications & Marketing
In mid-March, 2025, the Saint Francis University Board of Trustees voted to direct the university's executive leadership to pursue the reclassification of its athletics program. Shortly thereafter, the university publicly announced its intention to seek provisional membership in Division III and its intention to join the Presidents’ Athletic Conference. Following the Board’s directive, Saint Francis University plans to submit a formal request to the NCAA to transition from Division I to Division III, aiming for active membership by the 2029–2030 academic year.
Saint Francis University remains an NCAA Division I institution competing in the Northeast Conference (NEC) for the academic year beginning August 2025.
Year 2: 2026-2027
Status: Reclassifying DIII Member Institution
Year 3: 2027-2028
Status: Reclassifying DIII Member Institution
Year 4: 2028-2029
Status: Reclassifying DIII Member Institution
Year 5: 2029-2030
Status: Active DIII Member Institution
Seeing "Saint Francis University" scroll across the ESPN ticker as we compete at the highest levels has been a point of pride for us. As we reclassify divisions, our Red Flash student-athletes will continue to excel as DIII powerhouses.
Yet our greatest pride lies in living our mission—cultivating responsible leadership and strong values through our Catholic Franciscan faith.
Please keep our student-athletes, coaches, athletic leadership, and our campus community in your prayers during this transition. Saint Francis will continue to foster an environment of academic and athletic success, making you proud to be part of the Red Flash family.
"Unless the Lord builds the house, in vain do the builders labor."
