Many people wonder, “What conference is Texas State University in?” The answer is the Sun Belt Conference. This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Sun Belt Conference, its history, and the other schools that compete in it.
About the Sun Belt Conference
The Sun Belt Conference, often referred to simply as the Sun Belt, is a collegiate athletic conference that operates in the southeastern United States. It was established in 1976, originally as a basketball-only conference, but has since expanded to include a variety of sports. The conference is a member of the NCAA’s Division I, the highest level of collegiate athletics.
History and Evolution
The Sun Belt Conference was founded with six charter members: University of New Orleans, South Alabama, Jacksonville University, Georgia State University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and the University of South Florida. Over the years, the conference has seen many changes in membership as schools have joined and left to better align with their athletic goals.
In 2001, the conference began sponsoring football, which has since become one of its flagship sports. This addition marked a significant turning point, enhancing the conference’s reputation and visibility on the national stage.
Current Members of the Sun Belt Conference
As of now, the Sun Belt Conference includes a diverse group of institutions spread across the southeastern United States. Here is a list of the current members:
1. Appalachian State University (Boone, North Carolina)
2. Arkansas State University (Jonesboro, Arkansas)
3. Coastal Carolina University (Conway, South Carolina)
4. Georgia Southern University (Statesboro, Georgia)
5. Georgia State University (Atlanta, Georgia)
6. James Madison University (Harrisonburg, Virginia)
7. Louisiana State University (Lafayette, Louisiana)
8. University of Louisiana at Monroe (Monroe, Louisiana)
9. Marshall University (Huntington, West Virginia)
10. Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Virginia)
11. University of South Alabama (Mobile, Alabama)
12. Texas State University (San Marcos, Texas)
13. Troy University (Troy, Alabama)
Texas State University in the Sun Belt
Texas State University, located in San Marcos, Texas, joined the Sun Belt Conference in 2013. Since then, the Bobcats have competed in various sports within the conference, including football, basketball, baseball, and more. Being part of the Sun Belt allows Texas State to compete at a high level of collegiate athletics while also fostering regional rivalries and enhancing the student-athlete experience.
Conclusion
The Sun Belt Conference is a dynamic and competitive league with a rich history. Texas State University’s affiliation with the Sun Belt provides exciting opportunities for student-athletes and fans alike. With a diverse range of member schools, the conference continues to grow and evolve, maintaining its status as a significant player in NCAA Division I athletics.
To learn more about the Sun Belt Conference, check out their website at https://sunbeltsports.org
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