MACON, Ga. — Middle Georgia State University is expected to join the Peach Belt Conference in 2025 pending approval after receiving an invitation from the conferences’ board of directors.
MGA is expected to to apply to join NCAA Division II in February 2025 and if accepted would join the Peach Belt Conference in the fall of 2025.
"This is a great addition for the Peach Belt Conference and we could not be happier that Middle Georgia State has chosen us as their new home in NCAA Division II," said PBC commissioner David Brunk. "Our great thanks go out to president Dr. Christopher Blake for his vision and leadership. MGA is poised and ready to enter the Division II ranks and will be a great fit in the Peach Belt."
MGA has over 8,000 students at its five campuses and offers over 65 areas of study and has a School of Aviation.
“This invitation to join the well-regarded Peach Belt Conference is a momentous development for Middle Georgia State’s athletics program,” said MGA President Christopher Blake. “As we move ahead toward membership in NCAA Division II, we will continue to shape Knights athletics into a program that reflects our University’s vision and values and opens doors to new collaborations, rivalries, and shared experiences.”
Middle Georgia State athletics currently competes in the NAIA and the Southern States Athletic Conference. The Knights would bring baseball, softball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's soccer, men's and women's tennis, women's cross country and volleyball to the PBC with plans to add women's outdoor track and field (distance) starting in 2025-26. MGA athletics is housed on the Cochran campus with volleyball and tennis playing in Macon.
“I believe that pursuing membership in the Peach Belt Conference will not only enhance the reputation of our athletics program but also contribute to the overall growth and success of our University community,” said Michael Brown, MGA’s athletics director. “The Peach Belt Conference is renowned for its commitment to fostering student-athlete success, promoting sportsmanship, and providing a platform for spirited competition. I have full confidence that MGA will not only meet but exceed the high standards set by the conference.”