The University of Texas at Arlington's Division of Intercollegiate Athletics is excited to announce a new chapter in Maverick athletics.
Beginning in the 2026-27 season, UT Arlington will compete in the newly reshaped United Athletic Conference (UAC), formerly known as the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). Along with current WAC members, UTA, Abilene Christian University and Tarleton State University, the reimagined conference will welcome five new institutions: University of Central Arkansas, Eastern Kentucky University, Austin Peay State University, University of North Alabama and the University of West Georgia.
"This new era for UTA athletics is especially exciting because it brings limitless possibilities for our student-athletes and sports programs," UTA President Jennifer Cowley said. "I am looking forward to seeing this reinvigorated conference alignment take shape and to cheering on our Mavericks as we face new competitors."
Key benefits of UTA's new conference alignment include:
- Competition in a conference of like-minded institutions in championships across all UTA sports.
- Student athletes will benefit from reduced travel demands, less time away from class and more opportunities for local fan engagement due to the stronger regional footprint.
- Continued access to NCAA postseason tournament opportunities through conference championships.
"UTA expects to be the flagship of the newly formed UAC allowing us to continue competing at a high level while striving for championships," said UTA Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jon Fagg. "We are invigorated by what the future holds and remain solely committed to continuing our pursuit of greatness – on the field and in the classroom."
To add even more depth to the conference realignment, the UAC is entering a strategic, forward-thinking partnership with the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) meant to benefit all UAC and ASUN members. This alliance is a proactive measure designed to build a modern structure for intercollegiate athletics focusing on scheduling collaboration, enhanced revenue generating opportunities and resource alignment.
"We are thrilled about this groundbreaking move," Fagg said. "As college athletics sees changes across the country, we believe that these types of partnerships and associations represent the future landscape of college athletics. I am proud that UTA is on the cutting edge of what's to come."
About The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)
Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2025, The University of Texas at Arlington is a growing public research university in the heart of the thriving Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With a student body of over 41,000, UTA is the second-largest institution in the University of Texas System, offering more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Recognized as a Carnegie R-1 university, UTA stands among the nation's top 5% of institutions for research activity. UTA and its 280,000 alumni generate an annual economic impact of $28.8 billion for the state. The University has received the Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation from the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities and has earned recognition for its focus on student access and success, considered key drivers to economic growth and social progress for North Texas and beyond.
