James Madison University Joins American Conference, Leaving Sun Belt by 2028

Key points

• JMU's Board of Visitors unanimously voted to accept membership in the American Conference.
• JMU will join the American Conference as a full member no later than July 1, 2028.
• The American Conference's due diligence process evaluated JMU across six primary areas, including institutional alignment, competitive strength, and financial sustainability.
• JMU will move 17 of its 18 varsity sports to the American Conference, with field hockey remaining in the Mid-American Conference.
• JMU has been an affiliate member of the American Conference in lacrosse since 2022 and in swimming and diving since 2025-2026.

Background

JMU's move to the American Conference follows its transition from the FCS to the FBS in 2024, after joining the Sun Belt Conference in 2022. The university had previously spent the bulk of its Division I history in the Colonial (now Coastal) Athletic Association from 1985 to 2022. This realignment occurs amid broader legislative debates over conference expansion, including the Protect College Sports Act, which aims to limit conference growth and cap player compensation.

How outlets are covering it

The Sun Belt Conference issued a joint statement on conference realignment, acknowledging JMU's departure. JMU's leadership, including President James Schmidt and Director of Athletics Matt Roan, emphasized the strategic benefits of joining the American Conference, citing academic alignment, competitive opportunities, and geographic fit. The American Conference's evaluation process focused on institutional and academic alignment, competitive strength, financial sustainability, and media value. JMU's recent athletic success, including a College Football Playoff appearance in 2025 and multiple conference titles, was highlighted as a key factor in the decision.

Why it matters

JMU's move to the American Conference signals a significant shift in college sports realignment, reflecting the growing influence of mid-major programs in seeking higher-profile conferences. The transition could impact JMU's athletic competitiveness, media exposure, and financial sustainability, while also affecting the Sun Belt Conference's membership and competitive landscape. The move also highlights the ongoing debates over conference expansion and the role of legislation like the Protect College Sports Act in shaping the future of college athletics.

What to watch

JMU will prepare for its transition to the American Conference, with the move effective no later than July 1, 2028. The university will likely engage in further negotiations with the American Conference regarding specific terms and logistics. The Sun Belt Conference may seek to replace JMU with a new member, while the American Conference will integrate JMU into its existing structure. Legislative developments, including the Protect College Sports Act, could also influence the broader landscape of conference realignment.