5 Major Developments Transforming The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) In 2025

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The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) is currently undergoing one of the most significant periods of expansion and evolution in its modern history, solidifying its position as a premier NCAA Division II conference in the Northeast region. As of December 21, 2025, the conference is celebrating its 20th Anniversary as an active NCAA DII member, marking two decades of dedication to competitive athletics and academic excellence.

This conference, which spans institutions across Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, is not resting on its laurels; a series of major new developments—from welcoming a new full-time member to pioneering new sports—are actively reshaping the CACC landscape for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. The focus remains sharply on the 'D2 trifecta': a commitment to academic success, athletic competition, and community engagement for all student-athletes.

The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) at a Glance: Key Profile & Member Institutions

The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) has a long-standing history, originally founded in 1961 as an NAIA-affiliated conference. The pivotal shift came in 2004 when the CACC achieved full Active Status with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II. Today, the conference is led by Commissioner Dan Mara and comprises a robust group of institutions dedicated to the Division II philosophy.

The conference sponsors 16 championship sports, offering extensive competitive opportunities for men and women across the Northeast.

CACC Full-Time Member Institutions (Entities)

  • Bloomfield College (Charter Member)
  • University of Bridgeport
  • Caldwell University
  • Chestnut Hill College
  • Dominican University New York
  • Felician University
  • Georgian Court University
  • Goldey-Beacom College
  • Holy Family University
  • Jefferson (Thomas Jefferson University)
  • Monroe University (Newest Full-Time Member, joining Nov 2025)
  • Post University
  • Wilmington University

CACC Associate Member Institutions (Entities)

  • Lincoln University (PA) (Women’s Soccer and Baseball)

The CACC’s New Era: 5 Major 2025 Updates Defining the Conference

The 2025 academic year is proving to be a landmark time for the CACC, with several high-impact announcements and developments that point toward a future of growth, increased competitiveness, and enhanced student-athlete support. These updates are crucial for understanding the current direction of the conference.

1. Monroe University Joins as the Newest Full-Time Member

One of the most significant recent developments is the addition of Monroe University as the CACC’s newest full-time member institution. Announced in November 2025, this move expands the conference's footprint and competitive depth. Monroe University, with its established athletic programs, will officially transition to full-time CACC membership, bringing a fresh wave of competition to all conference sports. This expansion is a clear signal of the CACC's commitment to strategic growth within the NCAA Division II landscape.

2. Pioneering Expansion with Women’s Flag Football

The CACC is demonstrating its forward-thinking approach by embracing the growth of emerging sports. Five member institutions have announced plans to offer Women's Flag Football, making the conference an early adopter in this rapidly growing collegiate sport. This initiative not only provides new athletic opportunities for female student-athletes but also aligns the CACC with national trends toward developing non-traditional sports, enhancing the overall diversity of its athletic offerings.

3. Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Active NCAA DII Status

The 2024-2025 academic year marks the CACC’s 20th Anniversary as an active NCAA Division II conference. This milestone is a testament to the conference's stability and success since achieving full DII status in July 2004. The celebration highlights two decades of successful regional championships, national tournament appearances, and a sustained commitment to the Division II philosophy that balances academics and athletics.

4. Record-Breaking Academic Excellence and Partnership with Women Leaders in Sports

The CACC consistently emphasizes academic achievement, a core tenet of the Division II experience. The conference was recently tied for 4th in Division II for the highest Academic Success Rate (ASR) scores, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to student success in the classroom. Furthermore, the 2024-25 CACC Team GPA Award winners were announced in July 2025, recognizing the top-performing teams by cumulative GPA.

In a move to further support its student-athletes and staff, the CACC became an Enterprise Member of Women Leaders in Sports in December 2025. This strategic partnership is designed to foster professional development, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, particularly for women working within CACC athletics, reinforcing the conference's dedication to holistic support.

5. Competitive Structure and Championship Highlights

The CACC maintains a highly competitive environment across its 16 sports. For sports like Baseball, the conference is divided into North and South Divisions, which intensifies regional rivalries and championship seeding. The North Division includes teams like Dominican and Post, while the South Division features powerhouses like Jefferson and Wilmington. This divisional structure ensures a balanced and competitive regular season schedule.

Recent championship results from 2025 provide a snapshot of the competitive landscape. The 2025 Men's Golf Championship saw intense competition, with the final results showcasing the depth of talent across the conference. Similarly, the 2025 Men's Track & Field Championship demonstrated strong performances, with Felician University finishing fifth overall, highlighting the conference’s strength in various track and field events.

The Enduring CACC Commitment to Academic and Athletic Balance

The Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference continues to thrive by maintaining a strong focus on the balance between academic rigors and athletic pursuits. The success of CACC student-athletes is frequently recognized on a national level, with multiple institutions, including Chestnut Hill College and Holy Family University, earning the NCAA Presidents' Award for Academic Excellence.

This commitment is further evidenced by the high number of student-athletes named to the 2025 College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Teams, with every CACC member represented. This achievement underscores the conference-wide culture where athletic achievement complements, rather than compromises, academic success. The CACC's model serves as a blueprint for the Division II philosophy, producing well-rounded graduates prepared for success beyond their collegiate careers.

With the addition of Monroe University, the launch of Women's Flag Football, and the celebration of its 20th year as an active NCAA DII conference, the CACC is positioned for sustained growth and influence in collegiate sports. The leadership of Commissioner Dan Mara and the collective vision of the member institutions ensure that the CACC remains a dynamic and rewarding environment for student-athletes across the Northeast. The next few years promise even more competitive drama and academic milestones for the conference.

5 Major Developments Transforming the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) in 2025
central atlantic collegiate conference
central atlantic collegiate conference

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