Connect with us

College Sports

SEC Leaders Hint at a Seismic Shift in College Sports—Will the Powerhouse Conference …

The SEC and Big Ten are re-evaluating their roles within the NCAA, with some leaders considering possible departure due to legal and financial pressures. Major changes in college sports, including athlete compensation (NIL), antitrust lawsuits, and increased commercialization, are challenging traditional NCAA authority. Dissatisfaction with the NCAA’s regulatory effectiveness is prompting discussions about conference autonomy […]

Published

1 month ago

on

SEC Leaders Hint at a Seismic Shift in College Sports—Will the Powerhouse Conference ...

  • The SEC and Big Ten are re-evaluating their roles within the NCAA, with some leaders considering possible departure due to legal and financial pressures.
  • Major changes in college sports, including athlete compensation (NIL), antitrust lawsuits, and increased commercialization, are challenging traditional NCAA authority.
  • Dissatisfaction with the NCAA’s regulatory effectiveness is prompting discussions about conference autonomy versus centralized oversight.
  • Severing ties with the NCAA could endanger national championships, traditional rivalries, and the stability of Olympic and academic sports programs.
  • The future of college athletics may be redefined, as major conferences debate whether to trust the NCAA’s leadership or pursue independent governance.

Whispers of upheaval echo through the hotel corridors where college sports’ most influential minds gather, their conversations charged with urgency as the status quo faces unprecedented scrutiny. The SEC—an emblem of athletic dominance and cultural significance—stands at the heart of a rumbling debate: does its future belong within the NCAA’s storied tradition, or is it time to chart a new course?

Rumination has turned to restlessness among SEC athletic directors, some now openly questioning the value of continued NCAA membership. These deliberations are not idle. For decades, the NCAA has been the governing body shaping the landscape, enforcing rules, hosting celebrated championships, and ensuring a degree of harmony amidst fierce competition. March Madness, with its shared brackets and riveting upsets, has long served as the glue binding schools and fans alike.

But the ground beneath collegiate athletics is shifting. Legal battles—most notably the House v. NCAA antitrust case—have battered traditional models of amateurism, opened doors to athlete compensation, and forced universities to consider the nature of their allegiance. For SEC power brokers, the question is no longer abstract. Legal and financial pressures gnaw at their patience, pressing conference leaders to contemplate drastic steps for institutional survival.

It’s not just the SEC. The Big Ten, another behemoth, is quietly entertaining similar ideas. Their shared autonomy has grown, but a sense of dissatisfaction lingers. Critics argue that NCAA enforcement and regulatory mechanisms have failed to keep pace with modern challenges, including name, image, and likeness (NIL) reforms, escalating litigation, and the rapid commercialization of college football and basketball.

Yet even as some contemplate departure, there’s an undercurrent of caution. The NCAA’s role in orchestration—especially in renowned national championships—remains a powerful cement. The prospect of severing ties raises the specter of fragmentation, the unraveling of traditions, and uncertainty for thousands of athletes.

Administration officials stress the need for continued oversight, recognizing that athletics in America thrives under some measure of regulation. The alternatives—complete deregulation or fragmented governance—could threaten not only revenue sports, but also Olympic disciplines and academically integrated programs.

As SEC meetings in Miramar Beach unspool, the agenda is packed: football playoff expansion, the prospect of a nine-game schedule, and looming questions about the future of national championships swirl amid the sea air. But the true undercurrent is existential. Should the most powerful conference in sports trust its future to the NCAA’s uncertain stewardship—or is it time to rewrite the rules themselves?

For millions who fill stadiums and pencil in tournament brackets, the answer may redefine the spectacle and spirit of college sports for a generation.

Key takeaway: The SEC, along with other top conferences, stands at a crossroads. The decisions made here won’t just shape football schedules or championship lineups—they could rewrite the entire rulebook for the future of American collegiate athletics.

SEC and NCAA on a Collision Course: What a Breakaway Could Mean for College Sports Fans, Athletes, and March Madness

SEC Power Play: Why the Future of College Sports Hangs in the Balance

The ongoing power struggle between the SEC and the NCAA is more than just sports politics—it’s about the future of college athletics as we know them. Beyond headline debates at leadership retreats, tectonic shifts are underway that could reshape traditions, financial models, and student-athlete experiences. Here’s what’s really at stake, what could happen next, and what every fan—and stakeholder—should know.

—

Untold Developments: What’s Really Fueling the SEC Uprising?

1. Growing Financial Disparity
The SEC and Big Ten conferences—already wealthy thanks to multi-billion dollar television deals (e.g., the SEC’s $3 billion ESPN/ABC contract)—are seeing ever-wider revenue gaps compared to smaller conferences. This disparity intensifies the temptation for top schools to “go it alone” and control their own media rights and playoff systems.

2. Athlete Empowerment and NIL
The arrival of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings has changed the landscape. Athletes today can earn market-based endorsements, putting pressure on schools and conferences to create more flexible, athlete-friendly governance structures—something the NCAA has historically stymied or hesitated to accommodate.

3. Legal Precedents and Litigation
Cases like House v. NCAA, Alston v. NCAA, and O’Bannon v. NCAA have set legal standards that erode the NCAA’s ability to control amateurism. Courts have consistently ruled in favor of athletes’ rights, exposing the NCAA to billions in potential back pay, damages, and restructuring costs (ESPN, 2023).

—

Breaking Down the Risks: What Happens if the SEC (or Big Ten) Leaves?

How-To Guide: What a Breakaway League Might Do

1. Form a New Governing Body: The SEC and other top conferences could form a “super league” with its own rules, enforcement, and championship structures.
2. Negotiate TV and Sponsorship Direct: This enables more lucrative, flexible deals—potentially rivaling pro sports broadcasting models.
3. Design a New Playoff System: Football playoffs, March Madness alternatives, and other championships could become exclusive, reshaping fan traditions and school loyalties.
4. Redefine Athlete Compensation: Clearer, more competitive NIL rules and possibly revenue sharing directly with athletes.
5. Direct Oversight on Compliance and Eligibility: Schools could set their own standards for eligibility, scholarships, and transfer policies.

—

Real-World Use Cases

– Super Bowl-Level Events: An SEC-led football playoff could push championship games into Super Bowl territory in terms of viewership and marketing.
– Regionalized, Custom Championships: The SEC might develop new basketball, baseball, or Olympic-sport championships with tailored rules, boosting their brands.

—

Industry Trends & Market Forecasts

– Increased Autonomy: Power Five conferences are pushing for more independence—and the NCAA is losing influence, especially after the 2021 Supreme Court ruling (NCAA v. Alston).
– Revenue Surge: ESPN predicts media rights contracts for a super league could top $2 billion annually.
– Potential Fragmentation: If the “biggest” conferences leave, the rest of Division I could splinter, threatening the viability of smaller programs and sports.

—

Reviews, Comparisons, and Limitations

Pros & Cons Overview

| Pros | Cons |
|—————————————————–|———————————————————-|
| Higher revenue control for breakaway conferences | Possible loss of “March Madness” as we know it |
| More flexible compensation rules for athletes | Less exposure/competition for smaller schools |
| Tailored rules and compliance systems | May erode storied traditions and historic rivalries |
| Enhanced recruiting and branding opportunities | Uncertain future for Olympic/non-revenue sports |

Security & Sustainability

– Smaller conferences may struggle financially and could lose access to lucrative NCAA revenue sharing—a foundational support for non-revenue sports (like swimming, volleyball, or fencing).
– The status and oversight of Title IX (gender equity) enforcement would become much more complex in a breakaway league.

—

Most Pressing Reader Questions—And Clear Answers

Q: Will March Madness Survive if the SEC Leaves?
A: Highly uncertain. SEC and Big Ten departures could strip March Madness of its biggest teams and TV draws. The tournament might split, with rival championships forming.

Q: What about Olympic Sports?
A: Smaller, non-revenue sports rely heavily on NCAA funding and broad-based championships. A split could lead to fewer scholarships and fewer opportunities.

Q: Would athletes get paid directly in a breakaway league?
A: It’s possible. Super leagues could negotiate group licensing, profit-sharing, or even salaries for student-athletes, especially in revenue sports.

Q: Are other conferences thinking about leaving too?
A: Yes. The Big Ten, ACC, and others are watching carefully. If the SEC goes, a domino effect is likely.

—

Expert Opinions & Interviews

– Sports law expert Michael McCann (Sportico): “The legal and financial trends all point toward greater autonomy for the richest conferences. The NCAA’s power is shrinking.”
– SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey: “We want to find solutions, but the environment is changing so quickly that we need to be open to all possibilities.”
– NCAA President Charlie Baker: “Championships tie us together, but we recognize that reforms are needed to keep everyone at the table.”
(Sources: ESPN, Sportico, NCAA)

—

Actionable Recommendations & Quick Tips

For Fans

– Stay informed: Changes could alter game schedules, streaming rights, and traditional rivalries.
– Support Olympic and non-revenue sports: Advocacy may be needed if funding is cut.

For Athletes

– Know your NIL rights: Opportunities are growing, but so are compliance risks.
– Plan for possible changes in scholarship, transfer, and eligibility rules.

For Administrators

– Invest in compliance and legal expertise.
– Prepare for accelerated negotiations with media, sponsors, and third-party stakeholders.

—

The Bottom Line

The SEC’s possible exit from the NCAA isn’t just sports gossip—it’s potentially the most profound change in college athletics in a century. From March Madness survival to athlete pay and the future of Olympic sports, the ripple effects are enormous and touch every level of the game. Watch for key decisions in the coming months—because the future of college sports is more up for grabs than ever before.

For ongoing updates and authoritative information on governance and regulations, visit the NCAA.

3
Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

College Sports

Wilkes-Barre City Council considers changing handicap parking requirement

WILKES-BARRE — Council at Thursday’s voting session discussed making changes to an ordinance that requires those who want to get a handicap parking space in front of their home to have a handicap license plate. Councilmember Bill Barrett asked council to consider the possibility of amending the ordinance to require applicants to have either […]

Published

45 minutes ago

on

July 11, 2025

By


WILKES-BARRE — Council at Thursday’s voting session discussed making changes to an ordinance that requires those who want to get a handicap parking space in front of their home to have a handicap license plate.

Councilmember Bill Barrett asked council to consider the possibility of amending the ordinance to require applicants to have either a handicap licence plate or a handicap placard instead.

Barrett said he was inspired to bring up the possible change because a resident, who is disabled, reached out to Barrett and said he didn’t want to get a license plate because he didn’t want to advertise his disability.

“I understand that,” Barrett said.

The council member said similar ordinances in Philadelphia and Allentown allow for applicants to have a placard or plate.

“Other cities do it and PennDOT allows it,” he said.

Barrett said he would put his thoughts in writing for the council to review and also asked the city’s attorney Tim Henry to look into what would be involved in changing the ordinance.

Keystone Mission closure

Also at the meeting, Mayor George Brown was asked questions related to the closure of Keystone Mission’s overnight homeless shelter, which officially shuttered on Thursday.

Located at 90 E. Union St., the Innovation Center for Homeless and Poverty opened in October 2023 and provided homeless men and women with a daytime place to shower and wash clothes, receive breakfast and access community resources and services that may help them get off the streets. The overnight homeless shelter at the facility opened last summer.

Resident Sam Troy asked whether Wilkes-Barre would consider litigation against Keystone Mission, as Luzerne County is, to recover funds it previously gave the organization.

According to previous reporting, Luzerne County Manager Romilda Crocamo said the county filed a praecipe for a writ of summons on June 26, which was intended to protect and preserve the county’s right to reclaim federal American Rescue Plan Act funds distributed to Keystone Mission.

Troy also wanted to know how to city was going to address losing the services that the mission provided.

“The problem is going to be only aggravated. The homeless situation is going to increase, and we may see more and more camps over at Kirby Park,” he said.

Brown said the $224,000 in ARPA funds given by the city to Keystone Mission went right to the contractors to remodel the former Thomas C. Thomas building. The other $109,000 given to Keystone Mission was for operating costs for a year, from June 2024 to June 2025.

“So, our money is accounted for. I can’t speak for the county, but our money was accounted for,” Brown said.

Furthermore, the mayor said he previously had a series of meetings with local organizations, including CEO, Salvation Army and Volunteers of America, to find out how many people would still need help after Keystone Mission relocated some of the people who were regularly visiting the center.

“We did not get any indication on how many people were left,” Brown said.

Keystone Mission told the Times Leader last month that, of the 63 homeless people regularly visiting the center, 21 had been placed. Some received bus transportation to return to family members, while others have been accepted by other organizations across the state willing to take more people.

Agenda items

At least two residents objected to the city acting as a pass-through for King’s College to apply for a Multimodal Transportation Fund grant of $597,855 for phase two of its North Main Street Streetscape Improvements Project, which would cover areas around Public Square to North Street.

“It’s not like the city of Wilkes-Barre can get even a discount for going there,” said Wilkes-Barre resident Angel Mathus. “It’s not like we get special treatment for our kids to go there. You take 10 to 15 tuitions and they can raise that money.”

Despite objections, council approved the item, along with approval for the city to apply for a Multimodal Transportation Fund grant in the amount of $3 million for its own streetscape project.

The project will focus on the areas of Academy/Hazle Street to Wood Street and include the following improvements: new concrete sidewalks, curbs, sidewalk connections, crosswalks and paving of the street.

ADA accessibility improvements, such as curb cuts and sidewalk-detectable warning surfaces for the new ADA ramps, will be replaced.

Additionally, new benches, garbage receptacles, and signage will be installed, and trees will be planted to improve the overall quality of the city district.

Additionally, council approved awarding the Wilkes-Barre Police Department Alarm System contract to the most qualified firm, Eastern Time Inc., a Division of Sciens Building Solutions in the amount of $38,250.



Link

0
Continue Reading

College Sports

Mount Savage native gaining interest as college soccer prospect

MOUNT SAVAGE — Mount Savage native and Mountain Ridge rising senior Jesseca Kline is garnering interest from numerous college soccer programs after spending the last decade playing high-level travel and club soccer. Kline has a chance to become the first Division I women’s soccer recruit from Mountain Ridge since 2016. × This page requires Javascript. […]

Published

2 hours ago

on

July 11, 2025

By

Mount Savage native gaining interest as college soccer prospect

MOUNT SAVAGE — Mount Savage native and Mountain Ridge rising senior Jesseca Kline is garnering interest from numerous college soccer programs after spending the last decade playing high-level travel and club soccer.

Kline has a chance to become the first Division I women’s soccer recruit from Mountain Ridge since 2016.

This page requires Javascript.

Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

0
Continue Reading

College Sports

Talented trio: Langford siblings thriving in U.S. college hockey

Adamek siblings set for second season together at Liberty University, now sharing a townhouse They didn’t plan it. In fact, none of them really expected it. But this fall, three siblings from the West Shore – Zosia, Michael and Sophia Adamek – will not only be lacing up for Liberty University’s hockey programs again, but […]

Published

3 hours ago

on

July 11, 2025

By


Adamek siblings set for second season together at Liberty University, now sharing a townhouse

They didn’t plan it. In fact, none of them really expected it.

But this fall, three siblings from the West Shore – Zosia, Michael and Sophia Adamek – will not only be lacing up for Liberty University’s hockey programs again, but also living under the same roof in a townhouse just off campus in Lynchburg, Va.

It’ll be their second season together at the school – a rare family setup that’s only brought them closer.

“It’s going to be a full house,” Sophia grinned. “But honestly, it’s pretty special. How many people get to do this with their siblings?”

All three skate in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) – Zosia, 22, is a veteran forward on the women’s team, while 20-year-old twins Sophia and Michael patrol the blue line for the women’s and men’s teams, respectively.

Their hockey journeys took different paths, but they all trace back to the same place: the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre, where they learned to skate and fell in love with the game.

Michael was the first on the ice – he joined CanSkate at age three and never looked back.

“Once I was on the ice, I never really wanted to be anywhere else,” he said.

Sophia and Zosia followed close behind. Before long, hockey wasn’t just something the Adamek kids did – it was who they were.

Their parents, Mike and Wendy, leaned in fully. Five years ago, they even installed a synthetic ice surface in their West Shore basement so the kids could sharpen their skills at home.

“It was really a no-brainer,” Mike said. “Our kids love hockey, we love hockey, and we wanted to give them every opportunity we could. We’re proud of what they’ve done with it.”

250709-gng-micahel
The synthetic ice surface positioned in the basement of the Adamek. Tony Trozzo/Goldstream News Gazette

Zosia, the eldest, was the first to head south, charting a course from Shawnigan Lake School to Liberty after COVID-19 complications rerouted her from a previous commitment to Long Island University.

“Looking back, I can’t imagine it any other way,” she said. “It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

She’s now a three-time national champion and was recently named Liberty’s Female Athlete of the Year. Her fourth season ended in unforgettable fashion – scoring the double-overtime winner in the national final, with Sophia on the ice beside her.


“That was a moment I won’t forget,” she said. “We’d lost in the semis the year before, so to come back and win it in that fashion – and to do it with my sister there – made it even better.”

Zosia currently ranks 17th on Liberty women’s all-time scoring list.

250709-gng-hockey3
Zosia, 22, shows off her first two championship rings – with a third on the way. The 2025 ring, which she helped design, will soon be in her hands. Tony Trozzo/Goldstream News Gazette

Michael, the youngest by a few minutes, arrived last fall after a BCHL career that included time with the Victoria Grizzlies, Prince George Spruce Kings and Coquitlam Express.

His final junior season was disrupted by a broken ankle, but he bounced back in time to make an impact in his freshman year, recording nine points on the Flames’ back end.

“Having my sisters already at Liberty definitely opened the door,” he said. “I wasn’t sure what was next after junior, especially with the injury, but this turned out to be a great fit.”

He’s studying business and volunteers with a local fire department, planning to pursue firefighting after his playing days.

Sophia, also a Shawnigan alum, captained their U18 team prior to her commitment to Liberty. 

In her first two seasons at Liberty, she’s tallied 28 points in 46 games and is building a strong foundation off the ice, too – studying sports management with a minor in statistics and computer science, with an eye on a future in sports analytics.

“Watching my sister before I was eligible was just so much fun,” Sophia said. “I remember going to watch games with my parents and knowing that I wanted to join Zosia one day.” 

250709-gng-hockey
Sophia, a mobile right-handed blueliner, will aim for her second national championship next season with Liberty. Tony Trozzo/Goldstream News Gazette

The Adamek name carries weight in West Shore hockey circles.

Their grandfather Rudy – who chose Zosia’s name as a nod to the family’s Polish roots – was the first president of Juan de Fuca Minor Hockey in 1971 and played a pivotal role in developing local sports infrastructure, including the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre, Esquimalt Recreation Centre, and Triangle Baseball Park.

“She ended up playing in the rink he helped build,” said Mike. “That’s something special.”

That legacy lives on through the R&D Adamek Hockey Camp – a summer program at Shawnigan Lake that their dad ran for years and the siblings have now taken over.

“It’s really cool to be part of something that our family started,” said Sophia. “Shawnigan was such an important place for Zosia and I – to now run a camp there and work with kids just starting out is full-circle for us.”

Two of their Liberty teammates will fly north to help run this year’s camp – just another example of how the Adameks continue to blend their roots with their current chapter.

“Liberty has helped me grow in a lot of ways,” Zosia said. “As a player, but also off the ice. The coaches care, and the team atmosphere is special.”

That atmosphere – and the family ties – played a big role in bringing Sophia and Michael to campus.

And now, with all three under one roof, the next chapter of the Adamek hockey story is set to be their most memorable yet.

“It’s not something we ever really planned,” said Michael. “But somehow, it all worked out.”





Link

0
Continue Reading

College Sports

‘Local Legends’ push for success in Moorhead girls hockey camp

MOORHEAD, Minn. (Valley News Live) – Several Division I players, all from the Fargo-Moorhead area, are driving others to success in a ‘Local Legends’ girls hockey camp. The drive for success starts early, and practicing for the next level begins at all ages. More than 90 youth girls hockey players attended the Local Legends camp […]

Published

3 hours ago

on

July 11, 2025

By


MOORHEAD, Minn. (Valley News Live) – Several Division I players, all from the Fargo-Moorhead area, are driving others to success in a ‘Local Legends’ girls hockey camp.

The drive for success starts early, and practicing for the next level begins at all ages.

More than 90 youth girls hockey players attended the Local Legends camp at The Cullen Hockey Center in Moorhead. The camp was led by six, local, Divsion I Women’s Hockey athletes: Olivia Dronen, Bria Holm, Ella Holm, Kate Kosobud, Taylor Brueske and Rylee Bartz.

They offered both on and off the ice training, as well as nutrition and sports psychology workshops.

After the camp, Moorhead 8U Girls Hockey player, Nora Deitz, said, “I had so much fun! I just keep working hard and keep practicing.”

Some traveled far and wide to attend the camp, like high school players, Ella Ketring and Madi Lisell of Roseau, Minnesota.

“It was really nice to hear from the college players that it’s all going to be okay, this is all just fun. Playing college hockey sounds really stressful, but we do this to have fun, so it was nice to hear it’s not going to be that stressful,” said Ketring.

Growing up in the FM community, Rylee Bartz of St. Thomas Women’s Hockey, said as girls hockey continues to evolve, so do the opportunities.

“There wasn’t much for girls hockey, I actually grew up playing boys hockey. Now, I look and there’s a ton of teams and a ton of opportunities for these younger girls,” she explained. “Getting to coach these girls and seeing them grow with a smile on their faces, it’s just so much fun.”

Moorhead native, Kate Kosobud, is set to transfer to The University of Minnesota-Duluth and emphasized players’ actions outside of the sport.

She said, “Not just as players on the ice, but the person and attitude you have off the ice is just as important. I told the girls giving back to your community… and having good relationships with your teachers, friends, and family can set you up for the next level.”

A next-level learning experience for those preparing for the future.

Some said they’re seeing their dreams now more than ever with the recent formation of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL).

“When we were younger, I remember watching the NHL and saying, that’s not fair… but now there’s the PWHL, so there’s really something to look forward to,” the Roseau High School girls said.

The camp finished with an awards ceremony and autograph signing from the local legends.

Copyright 2025 KVLY. All rights reserved.



Link

1
Continue Reading

College Sports

11 Home Matches Highlight 2025 Racer Soccer Schedule

The schedule for the 26th season of Murray State Women’s Soccer finds the Racers hosting 11 games at Carlisle Cutchin Field beginning with a pair of exhibition matches against Western Kentucky (Aug. 2) and Bellarmine (Aug. 8). The Racers host Troy, Lindenwood, Tennessee Tech, Marshall and Southeast Missouri prior to opening their fourth season in […]

Published

4 hours ago

on

July 11, 2025

By

11 Home Matches Highlight 2025 Racer Soccer Schedule

The schedule for the 26th season of Murray State Women’s Soccer finds the Racers hosting 11 games at Carlisle Cutchin Field beginning with a pair of exhibition matches against Western Kentucky (Aug. 2) and Bellarmine (Aug. 8).

The Racers host Troy, Lindenwood, Tennessee Tech, Marshall and Southeast Missouri prior to opening their fourth season in the Missouri Valley Conference at Illinois State (Sept. 18).

MSU’s first home games in the 2025 MVC season happen (Sept. 25) against Northern Iowa and Drake (Sept. 28).

The nine-game MVC schedule finishes with a trio of road games at UIC (Oct. 23), Valparaiso (Oct. 26) and Indiana State (Oct. 30).

In 2025, the MVC Tournament will be played among the top-6 teams from the regular season. The event begins with quarterfinal matches hosted by the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds with the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds hosting the semifinals and the highest remaining seed being host for the championship (Nov. 9).

The MVC season closes out at Northern Iowa (Oct. 24) and at Drake (Oct. 27), before the MVC Tournament is hosted at various campus sites (Oct. 31, Nov. 3, Nov. 7 & Nov. 10).

Follow the Racers on Twitter (@MSURacers), Instagram (@RacersAthletics) and Facebook to stay up-to-date on all that is happening with Murray State Athletics. Follow Murray State women’s soccer on Twitter and Instagram (@RacersSoccer).
 

0
Continue Reading

College Sports

Teague takes NIU gymnastics head coach title – Northern Star

Dawnita “Nita” Teague was named head coach of the NIU gymnastics team Tuesday after serving as interim head coach through the 2025 season.  After 5-13, 2-4 MAC records in the first year in the era of Teague, NIU began the search for a gymnastics coach with Teague coming out on top.  “As we went through […]

Published

4 hours ago

on

July 11, 2025

By


Dawnita “Nita” Teague was named head coach of the NIU gymnastics team Tuesday after serving as interim head coach through the 2025 season. 

After 5-13, 2-4 MAC records in the first year in the era of Teague, NIU began the search for a gymnastics coach with Teague coming out on top. 

“As we went through the search process, Nita’s extensive experience in college gymnastics, her ability to connect with and develop student-athletes, as well as her familiarity with NIU quickly established her as the best choice to lead the program going forward,” said NIU Vice President and Director of Athletics Sean T. Frazier in the NIU press release. “We’re very excited to remove the interim label and look forward to continuing the legacy of success both in the gym and in the classroom, that have been hallmarks of Huskie gymnastics.”

With a gymnastics career at NIU that landed Teague in the Huskie Hall of Fame, she’s been a long-standing part of the team’s evolution. She’s worked with the NIU gymnastics coaching staff since 2007, and worked her way up to associate head coach in 2019. In her time with the coaching staff, she’s helped send 37 gymnasts to NCAA regionals. 

“I’m super happy to be leading these ladies officially as the head coach at NIU,” Teague said in NIU’s press release. “It’s a great honor and I want to thank Sean (Frazier) and Courtney (Vinson, Executive Associate Athletic Director) for entrusting me with the future of the program. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue to build on the great reputation of NIU gymnastics, to raise the expectations in the gym and to take the program to the next level.”

Teague brings winning experience to the position, as she played a vital role in the Huskies winning the 2019 MAC Championship. As a former beam coach, her background helped NIU clinch the title in the balance beam event. She also led four Huskie gymnasts to a MAC Championship win on balance beam, including Holly Reichard and Jennifer Naughton in 2009, Mia Lord in 2019 and Alyssa Al-Ashari in 2024.

Teague assumed the interim head coach job in September 2024, following the retirement of head coach Sam Morreale after 13 years leading the program. With the removal of the interim marker, Teague continues her work as the fourth head coach in NIU gymnastics history.



Link

0
Continue Reading

Most Viewed Posts

Trending