July 6, 2024 – New Port Richey, Florida –
Trinity College of Florida is set to make a significant transition from the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) for the 2024-2025 academic year. This move aims to provide enhanced competitive opportunities and broader exposure for the college’s student-athletes while addressing ongoing challenges within its athletic programs. Historically, Trinity College has faced difficulties within the NCCAA, particularly in the Division II South Region. The college has struggled to field a consistent soccer team for the past several years. The volleyball team has had competitive matchups but has yet to secure a winning season, even in conference play. The men’s basketball team has often had losing seasons, though it has managed to secure significant wins and even postseason championships, such as the Bible College National Invitational Tournament (NIT). Trinity College of Florida won the Bible College NIT in 2016, 2017, and 2020. The Tigers have been known as a basketball school, with their men’s basketball program being the most successful among their athletic teams. The women’s basketball team also made a significant mark by winning the Bible College NIT in 2023. This success underscores the potential within Trinity’s basketball programs and the benefits that could come from competing in the USCAA.
One of the primary motivations behind the move to the USCAA is the potential to significantly improve recruiting efforts. By joining the USCAA, Trinity College hopes to attract higher-caliber athletes, which is crucial for building more competitive teams. This change also allows the college the option to offer athletic scholarships, providing additional incentives for prospective student-athletes. Daniel Johnson, Director of Athletics at Trinity College of Florida, emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “The USCAA offers a platform that aligns with our goals of recruiting top-tier talent and providing our student-athletes with the best possible competitive experiences”. The Tigers of Trinity College of Florida are no strangers to USCAA competition through their participation in the Bible College NIT. Although many of the USCAA teams they have faced in this tournament have been among the weaker ones, the Tigers have shown they can compete at that level. This experience is expected to benefit them as they transition fully into the USCAA.
There is also speculation that Trinity College may seek to join the New South Athletic Conference (NSAC), an independent conference. Although the NSAC is not officially recognized by the USCAA, it provides a competitive platform for independent schools and could offer additional opportunities for Trinity’s athletic programs. While discussions are still in the preliminary stages, this potential move is seen as a strategic effort to enhance the college’s athletic competitiveness and visibility.
As Trinity College of Florida prepares for its inaugural season in the USCAA, the college community is optimistic about the future. President Stephen Best expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “This transition marks a new chapter for Trinity College athletics. We are excited about the future and are committed to supporting our student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence.” The 2024-2025 season promises to be a transformative period for Trinity College, as it navigates these changes and strives to establish itself as a formidable presence in collegiate athletics. For more details on Trinity College of Florida’s athletics and updates on their conference affiliations, visit their official website and the New South Athletic Conference.
