CFB6d ago
James Madison Set for American Conference Move
The Dukes will depart the Sun Belt and join the American Athletic Conference as a full member by 2028.
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Board Approves Conference Shift
James Madison has accepted an invitation to join the American Athletic Conference and will become a full member no later than July 1, 2028. The university's Board of Visitors voted unanimously to notify the Sun Belt Conference of the departure. The Dukes have competed in the Sun Belt across football, basketball, baseball and other sports since moving from FCS to FBS in 2022, with the football program reaching full FBS status after two years of reclassification.
Funding and Transition Support
The move requires payment of an exit fee to the Sun Belt and an entry fee to the American. Both costs will be covered entirely through new private funding and commitments from corporate partners, with no internal university resources used. All but one of the school's 18 varsity sports will compete in the American upon full membership, while the women's field hockey program stays in the Mid-American Conference.
Program Growth and Outlook
James Madison has built a strong football presence among Group of 6 programs since joining FBS. The school captured its first Sun Belt title last season and reached the College Football Playoff. The Dukes open the current season with a 6-0 record. University leaders highlighted the new conference alignment as a step to expand media exposure, broaden the fan base and elevate all sports programs.
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