Is NCAA in the future for Union University?
JACKSON, Tenn. — Big changes could be coming to Union University’s athletics program. The NCAA is recommending the university be moved to Division II status. Right now, the school competes in the NAIA. Some say Division II is based on university principles. “It’s called life in the balance which encourages students to be strong in their academics, their resourcefulness and passion for life, their skill sets but even their service,” Jerry Tidwell said, Senior Vice President for University relations. Three years ago, the university began working on moving away from the NAIA. Athletes say they’ve already been conditioning to step up their game. “We’ve had three practice years with competing against these teams in the gulf south conference so I feel like this year. I think we’re ready,” Deja Moorer said, sophomore volleyball player. If accepted, athletes could be traveling more, practicing harder and playing longer seasons. In the past, the volleyball season ended around Thanksgiving. As Division II players, they could battle closer to Christmas. The university says it anticipates expanding rosters and eventually adding more sports.
