By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

In the world of college athletics, every decision reverberates through the halls of institutions, the hearts of student-athletes, and the spirit of entire communities. Today, we tell the story of North American University's Stallion Athletics Program, a beacon of hope, determination, and excellence.

In a pivotal move that signals a new era of growth and opportunity, the North American University (NAU) Stallion Athletics Program has been accepted into the United States College Athletic Association (USCAA). This acceptance is more than just an addition to their accolades; it is a testament to the relentless spirit and dedication of a program poised to make waves in the collegiate sports arena.

The NAU Stallions sponsor an impressive array of varsity programs, including Men's & Women's Basketball, Men's & Women's Track & Field and Cross Country, Men's and Women's Soccer, and Football. As members of the NAIA, the Stallions have already made significant strides, but this dual membership with both the NAIA and the USCAA is set to catapult them into new heights of recognition and success.

"NAU will continue to help our Division I growth," says USCAA COO, BJ Bertges. "Their current offerings align very well with the USCAA, and they will be a great addition to our membership in that region."

This milestone arrives at a crucial juncture. Recently, the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) issued a mandate requesting institutions to set NAU as non-conference status. "NAU is only a scheduling partner," stated the Commissioner. Despite this setback, the Stallions have proven their resilience and adaptability, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a true competitor.

The USCAA's mission aligns perfectly with NAU's vision. The association is dedicated to the growth, vision, and values of its member institutions, aiming to enhance them through athletics. The USCAA provides opportunities for small colleges to compete on a level playing field with similar-sized schools, conducting 15 National Championships, naming All-Americans, recognizing scholar athletes, and promoting its member schools in various innovative ways. Integrity and credibility are at the core of the USCAA's values, ensuring that every competition is fair, every victory deserved, and every athlete celebrated.

This affiliation opens the door for NAU to compete in post-season play, an opportunity that eluded them last year in the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC). Despite having records that warranted tournament participation, both the men's and women's soccer teams, as well as the men's and women's basketball teams, were sidelined. This exclusion, while disappointing, galvanized the Stallions to strive even harder.

Last season, NAU celebrated the recognition of 11 conference players in the RRAC, featuring athletes from both the 1st and 2nd teams. Additionally, five Stallions were honored as Champions of Character, two of whom are ranked as the number 1 and 20th prospects for the Euro League. This distinguished recognition not only underscores the talent within NAU's ranks but also their unwavering commitment to character and sportsmanship.

The Stallions' excellence isn't confined to one conference. Within the SAC, three more Stallions earned the title of Champions of Character, further solidifying NAU's reputation for nurturing well-rounded athletes who excel both on and off the field.

The vision and leadership of Athletic Director Coach Kenneth Apande have been instrumental in navigating these turbulent waters. His unwavering dedication to the program and its athletes has ensured that the Stallions remain on course, ready to seize every opportunity that comes their way.

As we stand on the brink of a new season, the Stallions are more than ready. Their journey, marked by resilience, excellence, and an unyielding spirit, is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision.

So, Stallion fans, check out our schedule on the Stallions' website and prepare to witness history in the making. The post-season campaign is upon us, and the Stallions are ready to charge forward with unmatched determination.

Now, you know what's happening in The Stable. GET THOSE HOOVES UP! And GOOOOOOOOOO STALLIONSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!

This is more than just a sports story; it is a narrative of perseverance, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. This is North American University's Stallion Athletics Program, and this is their time.