SALT LAKE CITY — Almost 18 months after Dixie State University announced that it would become a Division I institution, the school on Wednesday officially began that transition.
As part of that transition, it has joined the Western Athletic Conference as a full member. While 15 of DSU’s 16 sports will be part of the WAC immediately, they will not be eligible for NCAA Division I postseason play until the 2024-2025 season as the school completes the four-year reclassification process. Individuals in sports such as cross-country and swimming will be able to compete for conference championships immediately.
The football program will compete as an FCS independent during the reclassification process.
“Our coaches, student-athletes and staff have worked tirelessly, especially in these uncertain times, to be ready for this transition,” DSU athletic director Jason Boothe said in a statement. “It will be challenging, even more so now with the curve balls the pandemic is throwing at us, but we are ready. There is still a lot of work to do but we couldn’t be more excited for the future of Trailblazers Athletics and what this momentous next step will bring.”
DSU has competed on the Division II level since the 2006-2007 season. Prior to that, it was a junior college and competed in the National Junior College Athletic Association, where in-state schools Salt Lake Community College and Snow College do today. The Trailblazers will join UVU as in-state members of the WAC.
“Several factors make Dixie State University a great fit for the WAC,” conference commissioner Jeff Hurd said in 2019. “Commitment to quality academics and athletics programs, along with the long-term vision that President (Richard) Williams has for the University’s growth, are at the top of the list. I have no doubt that Dixie State will make a smooth transition to Division I and to the WAC.”
When it was announced in January of 2019 that DSU was going to make the move to Division I, university president Richard B. Williams said, “Moving to Division I is the next pivotal step in Dixie State University transitioning from securing university status in 2013 to obtaining university stature.
“Joining the Western Athletic Conference will not only elevate our athletic teams and allow them to play other high-caliber competitors, but it will elevate our entire university and expand the stage on which we can share the message about the high-quality academic programs, individualized attention and active learning opportunities available at Dixie State.”