LEBANON, Tenn. – Continuing to strengthen its reputation for outstanding intercollegiate athletics, Cumberland University officials have announced plans to change its athletic affiliation with the TranSouth Athletic Conference and join the Mid-South Conference beginning with the 2012-13 academic year.

Cumberland previously was a member of the Mid-South Conference from the 1997-98 academic year to 2001-02. The Bulldogs have played football in the MSC since the program was revived in 1990 and have also competed in the league in wrestling since it was added as an official conference sport two years ago.

Dr. Harvill Eaton, President of the University, said the decision to move its membership was based on several factors including the Mid-South Conference mission and a strong and shared commitment to academic excellence among its member institutions.

“Cumberland University has enjoyed a good relationship with the member schools of the TranSouth Conference, but this move will bring continuity to our athletic programs as well as students and fans,” said Dr. Eaton. “This is an important move for Cumberland, and Mid-South Conference membership will mark a major and strong step forward.

“We will, in our new athletic association which spans eight states, stand squarely in line with the possibility of significant national visibility for all of our sports while maintaining our commitment to individual personal attention to the student-athlete.”

The transition to the Mid-South Conference will position Cumberland University with a larger, more geographically visible athletic conference. The Mid-South Conference appreciates the value of extensive campus-based sports programs that maximize the opportunities for athletic competition among their students.

“Our goal is to be one of the best NAIA schools in the nation, both competitively and academically,” said Ron Pavan, Director of Athletics. “Our core values and goals are closely aligned with the Mid-South, which makes this a perfect fit. We know our athletic programs are prepared to compete at this level and we welcome the opportunity to be associated with the Mid-South Conference.”

The Mid-South Conference sponsors championships in volleyball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s basketball, wrestling, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s and women’s cross country and men’s and women’s outdoor track and field. The conference has claimed national championships in football (3), men’s soccer (8), women’s soccer (2) and men’s basketball (2), including 2011 champion Pikeville College.

“The Mid-South Conference is thrilled to have Cumberland University return as a full member of the conference.” said Steve Baker, Commissioner of the MSC. “Our presidents voted unanimously in favor of the school's application due to the excellent reputation of academic and athletic success at Cumberland. The school's mission matches extremely well with our other members and their commitment to utilizing sports as a further builder of character for their student-athletes. We look forward to renewed rivalries and years of great competition.”

“Cumberland University is a great fit for the Mid-South Conference, a conference committed to excellence, building character, and outstanding competition.” said Dr. Bill Crouch, Georgetown College President. “Cumberland University has practiced these ideals for years and we all hold the same values. We are delighted to welcome them to the Mid-South.”