TMU's Saints, under Dan Weber's leadership, have fully committed to the NCAA following a lengthy, dedicated crusade spanning multiple years
In a significant milestone for Thomas More University, the institution has officially become a full-fledged member of the NCAA Division II, effective from the 2025-2026 academic year [1][3][4]. This achievement, five years in the making, marks a new era for Saints Athletics.
The journey to NCAA membership began five years ago, with the University seeking guidance from the NCAA Division II Great Midwest Conference [2]. Over the years, Thomas More has undergone numerous changes and improvements to meet the rigorous standards required for membership. The university has incorporated the Five Seasons Family Sports Club and upgraded its softball complex, among other athletic facilities [2].
The process was no easy feat, involving numerous reports, phone calls, surveys, consultations, recruiting, practices, games, and travel [2]. The hard work and dedication paid off, as Thomas More was able to compete in conference championships and tournaments during its three-year provisional period, but not at the national level until achieving full membership [1][3].
The university's student-athletes have made a remarkable impact during this period. This year alone, they have earned 345 academic all-conference awards, 24 all-conference athletes, and one team championship in bowling [1]. The Saints' athletic department has also seen significant improvements in the last three probationary years. The retention rate increased from 68% to 77%, the athletic GPA rose from 2.86 to 3.12, and 3,500 hours of community service were performed by athletes [1].
Colin McHale, a basketball player at Thomas More University, appreciates the lively campus as the centerpiece in the Edgewood/Crestview Hills development corridor. He finds the atmosphere more family-oriented compared to his previous school [1]. Will "Curly" Frey, another basketball player, finds the campus to be friendly and welcoming [1]. Mitchell Rylee, a transfer from Miami of Ohio, also praises the university's family-oriented atmosphere [1].
The football team, under the guidance of coach Chris Norwell, reflects the "Thomas More way." The team knows all the players' names, reflecting the tight-knit community at the university [1]. President Joseph Chillo emphasized the importance of what students do after their years at Thomas More, stating that it defines them as a Saint [1].
The achievement of NCAA membership symbolically makes the students at Thomas More University Saints. GMAC Commissioner Tom Daeger and Deputy Commissioner Leslie Schuemann were present to celebrate the achievement at Thomas More University's new academic center [1]. Commissioner Daeger described the achievement as a tremendous day for Thomas More [1].
Thomas More University's athletics growth is reflected in its record-breaking Second Century Campaign, with the initial $30 million fundraising goal surpassing $45 million [2]. Noah Francis, a senior cross-country runner and biology major, aims for early admission to UK Medical School [2].
With full NCAA Division II membership, Thomas More University athletes will now have the opportunity to compete at the national level, further cementing the university's commitment to academic and athletic excellence.
- The process of joining the NCAA Division II began five years ago with Thomas More University seeking guidance from the Great Midwest Conference, which includes the development of new athletic facilities like the Five Seasons Family Sports Club and upgrades to the softball complex in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Northern Kentucky.
- Over the years, the university has undergone numerous changes and improvements to meet the rigorous standards required for membership, including improvements to its athletic facilities, reports, phone calls, surveys, consultations, recruiting, practices, games, and travel.
- The university's student-athletes have made a remarkable impact during this period, earning 345 academic all-conference awards, 24 all-conference athletes, and one team championship in bowling, as well as significant improvements in retention rates, athletic GPAs, and community service hours.
- Student-athletes such as Colin McHale, Will "Curly" Frey, and Mitchell Rylee praise Thomas More University for its family-oriented atmosphere, finding it more welcoming and lively compared to other schools, particularly in the Edgewood/Crestview Hills development corridor.
- With full NCAA Division II membership, Thomas More University athletes will now have the opportunity to compete at the national level, further cementing the university's commitment to academic and athletic excellence, such as setting a record-breaking $45 million fundraising goal for its Second Century Campaign.
