Maryville University – St. Louis
NCAA Division II
Question and Answer

During July 2007, Dr. Mark Lombardi (President) and Tony Duckworth (Director of Athletics) began discussing how Athletics should be part of the Maryville University Strategic Plan.  The primary focus was on conference affiliation, division alignment, enrollment, institutional branding and image, and the student-athlete experience.  During September 2007, Dr. Lombardi appointed Dr. Nina Caldwell (V.P. of Student Life) to chair an Athletics Task Force to evaluate the future of Athletics at Maryville University. 

During the upcoming month’s, extensive research was compiled through the Department of Athletics and Athletics Task Force.  Tony Duckworth formally presented the data to the President’s Advisory Council in December 2007 and to the Board of Trustees in January 2008.  In March 2008, Maryville submitted application to the NCAA for reclassification to NCAA Division II.       

Question:  Who was on the Athletics Task Force?

Dr. Nina Caldwell, V.P. of Student Life
Tony Duckworth, Director of Athletics
Jack Bennett, Faculty Athletics Representative
Jerry Brisson, Executive Director of Planning, Research, and Technology
Shani Lenore, Director of Admissions
Martha Harbaugh, Director of Financial Aid
Mark Weinstein, Director of Marketing and Public Relations

Question:  Now that Maryville University has applied for NCAA Division II reclassification, what is the next step?

Maryville will find out in July 2008 if we have been accepted into the NCAA Division II exploratory process.  If accepted into the process the timeline will be as follows:

• Exploratory Year 1 (2008 - 2009) – Continue to compete in NCAA Division III while completing educational activities as part of the NCAA Division II membership process.
   
• Exploratory Year 2 (2009-2010) – Begin awarding athletically related financial aid while completing educational activities as part of the NCAA Division II membership process.
   
• Provisional Year (2010-2011) – After successful completion of the exploratory period, Maryville must be invited to enter the provisional year, and Maryville’s readiness to become an active member will continue to be evaluated.
   
• Active Member of NCAA Division II (2011-2012) – Must be invited to active membership.

Question:  Is conference affiliation being considered?

Maryville University is exploring conference options. 

Question:  Why does reclassifying take multiple years?

The NCAA Division II process affords Maryville the amount of time to make a smooth transition.  The 3 year process is an opportunity to strengthen our Athletics Department, evaluate legislation and processes, and incorporate changes.

Question:  What impact will this have on our current student-athletes?

Our current student-athletes will be the foundation of this transition.  As long as our current student-athletes are meeting the expectations of their coaches they will continue to participate in our programs.   

Question:  How will this affect the academic performance of our student-athletes?

Maryville University is committed to the academic performance of our student-athletes.  While our student-athletes will be competing at a higher level on the playing field/court, Athletics is committed to recruiting student-athletes who will continue to excel in the classroom.  

Question:  Will the existing Athletics facilities need to be upgraded?

We are fortunate to have viable on-campus facilities for our sports – with the exception of Golf.  The university is continuing to look at ways to enhance and improve our current Athletics facilities.  As part of the Maryville University Strategic Plan our institution will “site and build a multi-purpose athletics practice facility”.  

Question:  Where can I get additional information about NCAA Division II?

Please access the additional information “links” on this page.

Question:  What is the best way to stay informed of the transition progress?

Visit the Athletics web site at http://athletics.maryville.edu/

Question:  What if I have additional questions?

Ask the Director of Athletics at tduckworth@maryville.edu