UWF’s Division II legacy includes 11 national championships and a strong history of conference titles, underpinning supporters’ view that now is the right time for the move.

Former President Judy Bense and supporter “Flash” Gordon Sprague were named co-chairs of the transition committee to guide the Division I move.

ASUN and the WAC have formed a strategic consortium effective July 1, 2026, to improve scheduling, operations, and competition while preserving each league’s independent structure.

Ancillary promotional material from FloFootball platforms is noted but not central to the core announcement.

Officials expect Division I status to boost recruitment and attract students and student-athletes who previously viewed UWF as a Division II program.

Leadership, including Diaz and Scott, frame the transition as a driver of growth, exposure, and both regional and national recognition for the university.

The University of West Florida will move its athletics program to NCAA Division I starting in Fall 2026, with most sports joining the ASUN Conference and its football team competing in the United Athletic Conference.

UWF will become fully NCAA Division I postseason eligible after completing a three-year reclassification in 2029, remaining eligible for conference championships in the interim.

The university provides DI transition resources and fundraising options for Argonaut Athletics through its official channels and related links.

The move was approved unanimously by the university trustees, who highlighted the milestone as a catalyst for visibility and momentum.

During the 2024-25 year, UWF student-athletes earned multiple academic honors, underscoring the program’s academic excellence.

UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. calls the transition a historic step that expands opportunities and national visibility, while Athletic Director Dave Scott emphasizes developing champions for life.