Transitioning to Division III Excellence

Building a Stronger Community Through Mission, Academics, and Athletics

A Bold Step Forward 

 

 

A message from our President, Father Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R. 

DIII Reclassification

Strengthening our Mission and Enhancing the Student Experience 

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.

 

Understanding the Decision

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 

Reclassification Timeline

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.

Year 1: Academic Year 2025-2026
Status: Active DI Member Institution

Saint Francis University remains an NCAA Division I institution competing in the Northeast Conference (NEC) for the academic year beginning August 2025.

  • Year 2
  • Year 3
  • Year 4
  • Year 5

  • Year 2:  2026-2027

    Status: Reclassifying DIII Member Institution 

    • Saint Francis University is officially recognized as a Division III reclassifying member institution.
    • The athletics program begins operating in full compliance with NCAA Division III bylaws, except for the allowance of certain student-athletes to retain their athletic scholarship.
    • The competition schedule primarily includes other Division III institutions.

  •  Year 3: 2027-2028  

    Status: Reclassifying DIII Member Institution 

    • Saint Francis University continues its status as a Division III reclassifying member institution.
    • The athletics program begins operating in full compliance with NCAA Division III bylaws, except for the allowance of certain student-athletes to retain their athletic scholarship.
    • SFU's competition schedule includes other Division III institutions.

  • Year 4: 2028-2029

     Status: Reclassifying DIII Member Institution 

    • Saint Francis University continues its status as a Division III reclassifying member institution.
    • The athletics program continues operating in full compliance with NCAA Division III bylaws.
    • No student-athletes receiving athletic aid are eligible to compete.
    • SFU's competition schedule includes other Division III institutions.

  • Year 5: 2029-2030

     Status: Active DIII Member Institution 

    • Saint Francis University achieves full Division III membership status.
    • The athletics program operates entirely under NCAA Division III bylaws.
    • The competition schedule continues to include other Division III institutions. 
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Competing through (His) Spirit

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."

Reclassification Updates

Blog
Coach Villarrial

Chris Villarrial Signs Extension to Lead Saint Francis Football into New Era

SFU Athletics | 04/02/2025
Saint Francis has extended head coach Chris Villarrial’s contract as he leads the football program through its transition from Division I to Division III. With 68 wins, two NEC titles, and a historic FBS victory, Villarrial is the most successful coach in program history and remains committed to building excellence on and off the field.
Promoted Devin Sweetney Associate Head Coach Men's Basketball

A Red Flash Legend Returns: Devin Sweetney Named Associate Head Coach

SFU Athletics | 03/31/2025
Saint Francis has promoted alum Devin Sweetney to Associate Head Coach after he helped lead the Red Flash to their first NEC title in 34 years and a return to the NCAA Tournament. A former standout player and seasoned pro, Sweetney brings experience and deep ties to the program.
Promoted Luke McConnell

Luke McConnell Named Head Coach of Saint Francis Men’s Basketball

SFU Athletics | 03/27/2025
Saint Francis has promoted alum Luke McConnell to head coach after helping the Red Flash win their first NEC title and NCAA Tournament berth in 34 years. A former player, assistant, and associate head coach, McConnell continues a family legacy—following his father as SFU head coach.
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