ATHERTON, CA

    As announced by the National Collegiate Athletics Association's Membership Committee, Menlo College has been accepted as a member of the NCAA's Division II. This first step initiates a three-year reclassification process, throughout which the NCAA tracks benchmarks to ensure a smooth transition.

    Vice President for Athletics Keith Spataro remarked, "We will forever be grateful for our time in the NAIA, and today's decision marks an historic opportunity for Menlo College to join the ranks of the NCAA's Division II. We are excited about our future, which will include more regional rivalries, enhanced return on investment for our athletic program, and improved ability to brand and market Menlo Athletics. We have lots of work to do, and the College, our coaches, support staff, and student-athletes are up for the challenge."

    As part of the three-year reclassification process, the Oaks will remain in the NAIA, and compete in the GSAC for the 2023-24 season. During that time, teams will remain eligible for conference championships and national tournament berths. 

    In 2024-25, Menlo will begin competition as a member of the Pacific West (PacWest) Conference. The final year of provisional NCAA membership will be 2025-26, after which Menlo will be fully integrated into Division II. The Oaks can begin earning NCAA DII national championship berths in the fall of 2026.

    Regarding the news, Menlo College President Steven Weiner said, "From the moment we first opened our doors in the fall of 1927, athletics were central to the Menlo College experience. History books tell us that the most vibrant period for Menlo Athletics in the intervening decades has been in the last 15 years, during which time the program has been led by Vice President for Athletics Keith Spataro. There is ample evidence of our recent success, including multiple regional and national championships. My hat goes off to Keith and his team for successfully pursuing NCAA membership. Today's announcement represents a transformational moment for Menlo College, and I am excited for all it portends for our student-athletes and their families, our coaching staff, and everyone else who supports Menlo College Athletics. Count me among them!"

    Menlo Athletics' final year in the NAIA will begin in mid-August, when women's volleyball, women's soccer, and men's soccer commence their 2023 seasons.