WACO, Texas – The Red River Athletic Conference welcomes North American University in Houston, Texas, as the conference's 14th member, starting with the 2023-24 athletic seasons. NAU was accepted into NAIA membership this year and acceptance into the RRAC marks a new step in the emerging athletic department's progress.

NAU will immediately compete against RRAC teams in women's cross country, men's and women's soccer, men's and women's basketball, and women's track & field. The Stallions also play football and will be part of the Sooner Athletic Conference in that sport.

Kenneth Apande, NAU's athletic director, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the conference, stating, "North American University is excited to have the opportunity to compete in the RRAC. Our goals are to be competitive, increase enrollment and retention while supporting our school's bottom line, and give student-athletes the best experience possible. We feel the RRAC is the best governing body for our institution. We can't wait to get started!"

NAU will be an associate member during the 2023-24 academic year, meaning that the Stallions will not be eligible for postseason competition, but they will be considered for awards and will play RRAC schedules.

"We have been in conversation with North American University for some time to bring the Stallions into our conference," says RRAC Commissioner Tony Stigliano. "We're excited that the day is finally here for NAU to join the RRAC. Our member institutions have been welcoming, and we look forward to the continued growth of their program."

About North American University:
North American University (NAU) is a private and non-profit institution offering bachelor's and master's degrees. The university is committed to teaching excellence and student centeredness. NAU strives to provide an environment promoting global cultural competency, personal growth, and responsible citizenship.