JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The University of West Florida is making the move to the NCAA Division I level this year and joining the Jacksonville-based Atlantic Sun Conference as a multi-sport member, the school announced on Thursday.
The Argos will also join the United Athletic Conference for football this summer. The UAC is the rebranded Western Athletic Conference, and it will join the ASUN as a consortium to help with scheduling, competition opportunities and operational efficiencies, the conferences said in a statement. The Pensacola-based college had previously played in the Gulf South Conference. Now, West Florida will slug it out in the ASUN with colleges like Jacksonville University and the University of North Florida.
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“This transition represents the next chapter in the evolution of our athletics program and a testament to the dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and supporters,” West Florida athletic director Dave Scott said in a release. “As we prepare for Division I competition, we remain focused on building champions for life. We look forward to growing our tradition of success and welcoming our fans and partners to be part of this exciting journey.”
During the three-year transition process, West Florida will compete at the Division I level but won’t be able to qualify for postseason play. The Argos will still be able to compete for ASUN and UAC conference championships. The full transition process will be completed in 2029.
The Argos have been one of the best football programs in Division II, going 81-30 since their first season in 2016. Their least-successful season was 5-6 in that inaugural year. West Florida won a national championship in 2019 behind St. Augustine High School graduate Austin Reed at quarterback. It’s become a well-worn stop for local products, including former Nease star quarterback Marcus Stokes.
The ASUN is the conference home for both UNF and Jacksonville University, although neither the Ospreys nor Dolphins field football programs. The ASUN moved its headquarters from Atlanta to Jacksonville in 2024.
“Our transition to Division I marks a historic step forward for UWF and reflects the momentum, ambition and excellence that define our community,” University of West Florida President Manny Diaz Jr. said in a release.
“This milestone is about more than athletics — it represents expanded opportunities for our students, greater national visibility, and a continued commitment to providing an outstanding educational experience. I am proud of the work that has brought us to this moment and excited for the future we are building together.”