New Era. Same Roar.
On July 10, Vanguard University was notified by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that our athletics department has officially received full membership into the NCAA Division II. VU successfully waived the third year of a multi-year transition process from NAIA by meeting all NCAA compliance, academic, and operational benchmarks a year early. As a full competitor in the PacWest Conference, the Lions will now fully integrate into the NCAA Division II ecosystem—a major milestone for recruiting, visibility and competition.
“Vanguard University’s transition to NCAA Division II is an extension of the values and commitments that we have to excellence, to the character of our students, and to a competitive greatness that has manifested for generations in Vanguard Athletics,” said Michael J. Beals, Ph.D., Vanguard University president. “We decided after long consultation with stakeholders that the change to NCAA DII will have real positive impacts. The designation will enhance the student experience, be a unifying force for our community, and both strengthen and challenge our athletes to even greater heights and lengths of greatness.”
Postseason Eligible
Achieving full NCAA Division II membership grants VU’s athletic program a range of meaningful benefits. VU is now eligible to compete in NCAA Division II national championships and PacWest Conference postseason events. The university gains full voting rights within NCAA governance, allowing it to help shape policies that impact student-athletes nationwide. VU can also offer athletic scholarships in line with Division II regulations and schedule a complete NCAA Division II slate of competition. With this status, Vanguard may officially use NCAA Division II branding, which enhances its visibility and recognition at the national level.
“Our acceptance as full NCAA Division II members marks a historic milestone for Vanguard University and our athletic department,” said Jeff Bussell, VU director of athletics. “This transition has been years in the making—fueled by intentional investment and collaboration across our campus community. I am deeply grateful for the diligent work of our athletic department staff and coaches, the Athletic Advisory Committee, Athletic Compliance Committee, Student-Athlete Leadership Team, university staff, and administration. We also extend our sincere thanks to the NCAA for their guidance and support throughout this journey.”
Built on a Legacy of Excellence
“It’s been a tremendous blessing to be part of the Vanguard community for the past 37 years. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” said Bryan Wilkins, head coach for track & field and cross-country. “I love the amazing Christ-centered culture and mission we all share. I love our beautiful campus and our wonderful leaders, faculty, and staff. I’ve witnessed a lot of change through the years…new facilities, new programs, and new faces, but one thing has always remained the same: our loving and intentional Christ-centered community.”
“In my 28 years plus at Vanguard University, I have seen so much positive change to enhance the overall student experience in so many ways. This is truly a priority here, as seen in the action and results that I have witnessed,” said Russ Davis, head coach for women’s basketball. “The time spent competing in the NAIA was very special, with so many highlights for my team and myself personally. This move to the NCAA will be a chance to build even more fantastic achievements at a higher, more competitive level. The Lord has really blessed us along the way in this journey, and we will continue to trust His will and follow it. What a thrill.”
VU teams that will compete in the NCAA DII and the PacWest include Baseball, Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Track and Field, and Women’s Volleyball. Men’s Volleyball and Men’s and Women’s Wrestling will compete in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation, though with different playoff routes. Men’s Volleyball lives in a DI conference and can make the NCAA DI National Tournament, Men’s Wrestling can qualify for the DII Tournament, and Women’s Wrestling can join in the combined NCAA Tournament, as women’s wrestling became the 91st NCAA championship sport this past January and will have its first tournament in 2026. STUNT, Women’s Beach Volleyball, and Dance have their championships outside of the NCAA umbrella and transitioned to those formats during the past school year. All sports will be eligible for national rankings and other NCAA national awards in 2025-26.
