The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Presidents Council issued a position statement emphasizing the need for Division II athletics to operate under separate policies from Division I, particularly regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). READ MORE
The RMAC argues that Division II has a distinct and valuable model that prioritizes a balance of academics, athletics, and personal growth for student-athletes. Applying policies intended for the “Power Four” in Division I could undermine the Division II experience and create unsustainable models for non-Division I schools.
Key points from the RMAC statement
- No one-size-fits-all model: A single set of rules for all of college athletics does not reflect the different realities of Division I and Division II institutions.
- Protection of Division II philosophy: The council aims to prevent Division I-specific legal challenges and reactive policymaking from eroding the core mission of Division II. The Division II model is still “successful” and deserves to be preserved.
- A “near ideal” experience: According to Dr. David Tandberg, President of Adams State University and Chair of the RMAC Presidents Council, the Division II student-athlete experience is a “near ideal” one that focuses on developing well-rounded individuals for future goals.
- Advocacy for Division II: The RMAC Presidents Council is committed to ensuring that the Division II perspective is represented in all dialogues with the NCAA and with local, state, and federal lawmakers.
- Distinction from Power Four: The statement acknowledges that the “Power Four” have a different path and resources and that student-athletes who choose that path should pursue those opportunities. However, the RMAC maintains that the Division II path, which still works, is different.
