Texas A&M University-Texarkana has reached a historic milestone as its athletic department has officially been accepted into the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II membership process, marking the beginning of a new era for Eagle athletics.
University officials received the official notification Friday morning during a phone call from NCAA representatives to President Dr. Ross Alexander and Director of Athletics Ryan Wall.
The move transitions A&M-Texarkana from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) to NCAA Division II, a change university leaders say will strengthen recruiting, enhance the student-athlete experience, and elevate the university’s athletic profile throughout the region.
“We are thrilled to formally announce that we have been accepted into NCAA Division II athletics,” said President Dr. Ross Alexander. “I want to commend Director of Athletics Ryan Wall and his staff for a job well done throughout the lengthy application process. Today’s announcement is another example of the ascendancy of A&M-Texarkana. Membership in NCAA Division II will allow us to continue to recruit high-quality student-athletes, allow them to compete at a higher level, and elevate the game day experience for the student body and the entire community.”
Athletic Director Ryan Wall called the announcement a defining moment for the university.
“We are incredibly grateful to the NCAA for approving A&M-Texarkana to begin its transition to NCAA Division II membership,” Wall said. “This is a historic milestone for our university and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of so many people.”
Wall thanked the university’s faculty, staff, coaches, and campus partners for their efforts throughout the application process, while also recognizing Dr. Alexander’s leadership and support.
“This is only the beginning,” Wall said. “We are building something special at A&M-Texarkana, and our future is incredibly bright. We look forward to competing at the NCAA Division II level while continuing to provide an outstanding experience for our student-athletes and representing our university and community with pride.”
The transition to NCAA Division II is a multi-year process. Schools must meet rigorous NCAA standards involving compliance, facilities, financial aid, budgeting, and conference affiliation before becoming full Division II members.
A&M-Texarkana has already secured an invitation to join the Lone Star Conference, widely recognized as one of the premier conferences in NCAA Division II athletics. While the transition traditionally takes three years, the NCAA now offers an expedited two-year pathway for institutions that already meet many of its requirements. University officials say they are working to position A&M-Texarkana for that accelerated timeline.
The announcement represents one of the most significant developments in the history of Eagle athletics and reflects the university’s continued growth as it expands both academically and competitively.
