LANCASTER – The University of Antelope Valley has been added to the California Pacific Conference, effective with the 2015-16 academic year.
“Our membership is genuinely thrilled to welcome the University of Antelope Valley to the Cal Pac family,” stated Commissioner Don Ott. “UAV adds to the distinctive educational landscape of the conference, and brings yet another jolt of enthusiasm and creative thinking to our growth. This is an institution that has tremendous potential and plans, and already has demonstrated excellence in Champions of Character. They’re a great addition to the Cal Pac.”.
UAV currently offers six intercollegiate sports, with two more on the immediate horizon. Already competing against Cal Pac schools in cross country, soccer, softball, and baseball, the Pioneers have plans to begin men’s basketball and volleyball programs in Fall 2015.
“Becoming a member of the Cal Pac conference family is not only amazing for UAV and our student athletes, but it’s just as exciting for our entire Antelope Valley community,” stated UAV President Marco Johnson.
The addition of the Pioneers athletic programs brings the Cal Pac membership to 10 — five in the North and five in the South. UAV, currently competing in the Association of Independent Institutions, was awarded a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Champions of Character Silver Medallion for the 2013-14 season.
While a new institution in the Cal Pac, UAV will have a familiar look to the athletic department. Jeff Bussell, the Pioneers’ new athletics director, spent 10 years in the Cal Pac while taking a variety of jobs at William Jessup. During his 10-year tenure at WJU, Bussell was instrumental in building the championship athletic department.
“UAV’s acceptance into the Cal Pac conference is a significant step in the development of our athletics program,” Bussell stated. “Having been a member in the conference over the last nine years while working at William Jessup, I know the Cal Pac will provide a tremendous environment of competition and sportsmanship for our student-athletes and Pioneer fans.”
The California Pacific Conference is one of the most diverse Division II leagues in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. View the current membership configuration in the Cal Pac, the sports they sponsor and any historical matchups that UAV might have at http://uavpioneers.com/athletics/Part_One-_CAL_PAC.
Read more about the Cal Pac here.
–