What is the United Athletic Conference?
The United Athletic Conference (UAC) is the newest conference in Division I: the Western Athletic Conference (founded 1962) rebranded as the UAC in July 2026, combining former WAC members with football-playing schools arriving from the ASUN under a strategic alliance.[1] [2]
Members and sports
The launch membership comprises eight institutions: Abilene Christian, Austin Peay, Central Arkansas, Eastern Kentucky, North Alabama, Tarleton State, UT Arlington and West Georgia.[1]
Since when does it exist?
The UAC name first appeared in 2023 as the WAC–ASUN football partnership; the full-conference rebrand took effect for 2026–27. The legacy WAC's history — once home to BYU, Utah and Arizona — passes to the new league.[1] [3]
Why does the United Athletic Conference matter?
As the successor to a 60-year Division I conference, the UAC holds automatic NCAA championship access across its sports from its first season.[1] [2]
References
- Athletic Business — WAC to rebrand as UAC, add five schools in 2026-27. Accessed August 2026.
- NCAA — About the NCAA. Accessed August 2026.
- UCA Sports — ASUN-UAC strategic alliance. Accessed August 2026.