After the news was initially reported earlier this week, Conference USA and the University of Delaware have formally announced that the Blue Hens will be a full member of CUSA for the 2025-2026 academic year.
“Adding the University of Delaware is a tremendous opportunity for Conference USA as we strategically position ourselves for continued success,” Commissioner Judy MacLeod said in a statement posted to CUSA's website. "We are excited to add the state’s flagship university with its rich history in athletics and academics and look forward to our partnership with President Dennis Assanis, Director of Athletics Chrissi Rawak and their leadership group."
The Blue Hens will compete in Conference USA in football, as well as baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, men’s and women’s golf, women’s soccer, softball, men’s and women’s tennis, track & field, and volleyball.
A press conference will be held Wednesday, November 29, at 10:00 AM ET at the University of Delaware to formally announce this move. The event is open to the public, and will be live streamed on YouTube.
“Just like our football team, the whole University of Delaware, is on the rise,” University of Delaware President Dennis Assanis said in the aforementioned statement. “UD ranks among the nation’s leading public research institutions and is recognized nationally for delivering exceptional professional outcomes for our students. Joining Conference USA will help increase our visibility to shine a light on our excellent academic programs, our ground-breaking research initiatives and our enduring impact on our community and the world.”
Delaware's addition will bring the number of football programs in CUSA in 2025 to 11. Kennesaw State join the league in 2024. Delaware football will face #2 Montana in the FCS playoffs on ESPN+ on December 2 at 9 PM.
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