NEWMAC Expands to 21 Varsity Sports with Addition of Men's Volleyball

Strategic Insights -

The New England Women's & Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) is proud to announce the addition of men's volleyball to its roster of championship sports, beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year. This marks an exciting milestone in the conference's commitment to broadening athletic opportunities for student-athletes. With this addition, the conference will now sponsor 21 varsity sports.

The addition of men's volleyball to the NEWMAC is a testament to the conference's dedication to providing a competitive and inclusive environment for its member institutions. The conference has welcomed three esteemed institutions as associate members, enhancing the competitiveness and prestige of its newest championship sport. The partnership between the NEWMAC, Empire 8, and UVC Commissioner Chuck Mitrano has ensured a smooth and inclusive realignment process, allowing all institutions to find a competitive home and maintain access to NCAA championship opportunities.

The addition of men's volleyball to the NEWMAC also creates new opportunities for member institutions to showcase their outstanding teams and athletes. The conference is currently finalizing scheduling and championship structures, with conference play set to begin in 2026-2027. The NEWMAC's commitment to providing competitive athletic opportunities for student-athletes has earned it a reputation as a premier conference in NCAA Division III.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NEWMAC will now sponsor 21 varsity sports, beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year.
  • The conference has welcomed three esteemed institutions as associate members: New York University (NYU), State University of New York New Paltz, and Vassar College.
  • The partnership between the NEWMAC, Empire 8, and UVC Commissioner Chuck Mitrano ensured a smooth and inclusive realignment process.
  • The addition of men's volleyball creates new opportunities for member institutions to showcase their outstanding teams and athletes.
  • The NEWMAC's total membership will expand to 12 institutions, with four associate members.
  • Springfield College brings a storied tradition to the NEWMAC, having captured five NCAA Division III National Championships since 2012 and reaching nine national title matches.
  • MIT currently competes in the United Volleyball Conference (UVC), while Emerson will transition from the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC).
  • Wheaton College will debut its men's volleyball program in 2026, joining four other NEWMAC institutions that currently sponsor varsity men's volleyball.
  • The NEWMAC will host the 2027 NCAA Division III Men's Volleyball Championship.

Statistics:

  • 21: The number of varsity sports sponsored by the NEWMAC.
  • 3: The number of institutions welcomed as associate members: NYU, SUNY New Paltz, and Vassar College.
  • 12: The total number of institutions in the NEWMAC, with four associate members.
  • 5: The number of NCAA Division III National Championships won by Springfield College since 2012.
  • 9: The number of national title matches reached by Springfield College.
  • 2026-2027: The academic year when the NEWMAC will begin sponsoring 21 varsity sports.

Sources:

  • News release from the NEWMAC, date not specified.
  • Interview with NEWMAC Executive Director Patrick B. Summers, date not specified.
  • Interview with Wheaton College Interim Director of Athletics, Lisa Yenush, date not specified.
  • Interview with NEWMAC Membership Committee Chair and Clark University President, David Fithian, date not specified.
  • Various press releases from member institutions.