Monmouth University Athletics Accept Invitation to Join MAAC

After 27 years as a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC), Monmouth University athletics has accepted an invitation to join a new conference.

University officials announced Friday that the school will be joining the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC), effective July 1, 2013.

Monmouth currently has 21 NCAA Division I athletic teams, and they will all begin playing games against MAAC competition during the 2013-14 academic year.

“Monmouth is flattered by the invitation to join the MAAC," Monmouth University President Paul G. Gaffney said in a release.

"I thank the Council of Presidents for having confidence in us. While we have enjoyed our relationships with the NEC member institutions and our successes on the field, Monmouth is pleased with the opportunity to aim for new goals. There is little doubt that Monmouth and our NEC friends will find ways to continue valuable competitions. I look forward to working closely with new colleagues in the continual advancement of our new home conference.”

MAAC Commissioner Richard J. Ensor said he is looking forward to having the Hawks as part of the MAAC.

“In evaluating potential new member schools the MAAC membership has sought to maintain a brand the stresses excellence in academics and athletics and Monmouth University fully meets that criteria,” Ensor said. “The MAAC will be a great home for the Monmouth athletic program, and the conference looks forward to the start of their participation with the start of the 2013-14 academic year.”

Monmouth joined the NEC in the 1985-86 school year, won a total of 63 NEC Championships, 35 NEC Regular Season titles, and made 19 NCAA Tournament Appearances as a member of the league. The Hawks also captured five Commissioner’s Cup trophies since 1997-98, nine men’s sports commissioner’s cup titles and finished in the top-two in 14 of the 15 years.

The MAAC currently has 10 members which include; Canisius College, Fairfield University, Iona College, Loyola University Maryland (moving to the Patriot League in 2013), Manhattan College, Marist College, Niagara University, Rider University, Saint Peter's University, and Siena College.