Tarleton State leaving Division II for FCS
Tarleton State will leave Division II's Lone Star Conference to join the WAC in Olympic sports and compete as an FCS independent in football, the Lone Star Conference has confirmed.
Tarleton State confirmed it is in discussions with the WAC.
"This is an exciting time for Tarleton as we look to enhance our institutional profile as an NCAA Division I university," said Tarleton State president Dr. James Hurley. "I would like to thank Commissioner Jeff Hurd, the WAC Presidents and everyone involved at today's meeting for their hospitality. Today was an important milestone in our quest to show the country that Tarleton is next level ready."
Tarleton State is located in Stephenville, Texas, 50 miles southwest of Fort Worth. The Texans are currently 4-0 and ranked No. 4 nationally in Division II. Todd Whitten's team beat longstanding FCS member Stephen F. Austin 37-26 to open the season.
Tarleton State will withdraw from the LSC on June 30, according to this statement from the conference:
“On Monday, Tarleton State submitted their official notification of withdrawal from the Lone Star Conference, effective June 30, 2020. They’ve been a valued member of the LSC for many years and we wish them the best of luck with their transition.”
The Texans will be the fourth Texas school to leave Division II for Division I this decade, following Abilene Christian, Houston Baptist and Incarnate Word.
Tarleton State will be the 21st Division I football program in the state of Texas.
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