FORT WORTH, Texas – The Lone Star Conference announced on Friday that Texas Wesleyan University has been invited to apply for membership and start the provisional transition to NCAA Division II. The invitation marks a key step for the private university, which currently competes in the NAIA, as it seeks stronger regional competition and greater national visibility for its more than 650 student‑athletes.
Why the move matters locally
Founded in 1890 as Fort Worth’s first institution of higher education, Texas Wesleyan will become the Lone Star Conference’s only member campus in the city. The university’s inclusion adds a Division II presence to the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex, offering local fans additional high‑level collegiate athletics without leaving the area.
University leadership’s response
“This invitation reflects our university’s investment in our student‑athletes by their coaches, staff and supporters. We are honored to take this next step, and we are ready for it,” said Dr. Emily Messer, president of Texas Wesleyan. “Competing in the Lone Star Conference means competing among the best in Division II, and that is exactly where Texas Wesleyan belongs.”
Athletics department outlook
Ricky Dotson, director of athletics, added, “Our student‑athletes have earned this opportunity. We have built the programs, the facilities and the support systems to compete at this level, and our people are excited to test themselves against the best the region has to offer. This is a proud day for Ram athletics and for everyone who helped us get here.”
Texas Wesleyan currently sponsors 16 of the 17 sports contested by the Lone Star Conference and plans to add the emerging sport of STUNT during the transition period.
Timeline for the transition
The NCAA Division II admission process is multi‑year and provisional. Texas Wesleyan must submit its formal application by October 2026. The conference will review the submission and notify the university of its provisional membership status in the winter of 2027. If approved, the Rams will begin competing in conference play while completing the NCAA’s compliance and scholarship requirements.
Impact on the community
Local businesses anticipate increased attendance at games, which could boost downtown Fort Worth restaurants and hotels on game nights. The university also expects to expand community outreach programs, offering youth clinics and mentorship opportunities tied to its expanded athletic schedule.
For families and alumni, the move promises more travel opportunities to see the Rams compete against regional rivals such as West Texas A&M, Texas A&M‑Kingsville and other Lone Star members, strengthening school spirit across the metro area.
Looking ahead
While the invitation is a milestone, the university acknowledges the work ahead. Compliance with NCAA academic standards, scholarship allocations and facility upgrades will require continued investment from the board of trustees, donors and the broader Fort Worth community.
“We are committed to upholding the values of academic excellence, character development and competitive integrity that define both Texas Wesleyan and the Lone Star Conference,” Dr. Messer concluded.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
