A Syracuse college is elevating its athletics program.
Le Moyne College’s athletic teams will move from Division II to Division I starting July 1.
Le Moyne College Athletic Director Bob Beretta said the journey has been more than a decade of conversations.
“By rising to Division I, we will offer our student athletes the opportunity to test themselves on the biggest stage," Beretta said. "And when they are on that great stage, they will tell a new audience in new markets about our Jesuit gem.”
Le Moyne student athletes will begin competition in the Northeast Conference in the fall, but It won’t be until the 2027 academic year that Le Moyne will compete in the NCAA postseason.
Northeast Conference commissioner Noreen Morris said moving from Division II to Division I is a significant change regarding coaches, scholarships and financial investment and will require time to transition.
"The NCAA wants to make sure whoever is coming in, has that chance to ramp up." Morris said.
Le Moyne College President Linda LeMura said she's excited for what's ahead.
"This is a bold, no none sense, gritty, resilient, aspirational school," Lemura said. "And this is not the first time we've been bold. This is what we do. This is who we are. 'Phins up!" she said, referencing the school's mascot.