ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Flagler College is set to take a major step forward in its athletic future, announcing plans to join the Sunshine State Conference as a full member beginning with the 2027–28 academic year.
The move aligns the Saints with one of NCAA Division II’s premier leagues and keeps the program firmly rooted within the state of Florida, both competitively and geographically.
Recommended Videos
Flagler Director of Athletics Jud Damon called the opportunity an honor, emphasizing the prestige of the conference and its member institutions.
Conference leadership echoed that enthusiasm. James Annarelli, who serves as president of the SSC Presidents Council, said there was “unanimous and enthusiastic support” to approve Flagler’s application, highlighting the school’s track record of athletic success and academic achievement.
College president John Delaney described the transition as a “strategic moment” for the institution, noting that the move reflects Flagler’s growth in reputation, student opportunity, and statewide impact.
The addition of Flagler will bring the Sunshine State Conference to 12 member institutions, a change Commissioner Chris Graham said will help create more balanced scheduling while strengthening an already competitive league.
Flagler will join a conference lineup that includes in-state programs such as University of Tampa, Rollins College, Eckerd College, Florida Southern College, Barry University, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The move is expected to intensify regional rivalries, particularly with Embry-Riddle, while boosting visibility across major Florida media markets.
The Saints will depart the Peach Belt Conference after 17 years of membership. Since joining the league in 2009, Flagler has built an impressive résumé, including three Commissioner’s Cups, 69 conference championships, 111 NCAA Division II Tournament appearances, and seven regional titles.
Flagler also earned recognition for sportsmanship and academic excellence, collecting multiple institutional awards and 11 NCAA President’s Awards for Academic Excellence during its time in the Peach Belt.
Additional details on schedules and the transition to Sunshine State Conference play are expected to be announced at a later date.