James Madison votes to leave Sun Belt for American Conference membership
4 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 12, 2026, 3:10 PM
Last updated Oct 12, 2026
James Madison University has announced its decision to exit the Sun Belt Conference and join the American Conference. The university's Board of Visitors voted unanimously for this move, citing competitive and academic alignment. Previously, JMU had been considering this transition along with Miami (OH) and UConn. The Dukes currently hold a perfect 6-0 record in football this season and have been contenders since joining the Sun Belt in 2022.
- •JMU is currently 6-0 in football with a 3-0 record in Sun Belt play.
- •The Board of Visitors voted unanimously to accept the American Conference invitation.
- •JMU has been part of the American for lacrosse and swimming since 2022.
- •The move reflects JMU's commitment to align with academically and competitively similar institutions.
- •The American Conference may look to add another member to reach an even 16 teams.
- 4:00 PMESPN NCAAF — James Madison to exit Sun Belt, join American Conference
- 2:58 PMYahoo Sports — James Madison, American Conference announce Dukes to join league by 2028
- 2:20 PMYahoo Sports — James Madison votes to leave Sun Belt, will join the American Conference
"James Madison and the American Conference on Monday, Oct. 12, issued statements announcing the Dukes will become full members by no later than 2028.
"James Madison has accepted membership into the American Athletic Association, the university announced Monday.
"The Dukes are currently 6-0 in football this season, including a 3-0 record in the Sun Belt.
Sources
External links- ESPN NCAAFOct 12, 2026, 4:00 PMJames Madison to exit Sun Belt, join American Conference
James Madison has accepted membership into the American Athletic Association, the university announced Monday.
- Yahoo SportsOct 12, 2026, 2:58 PMJames Madison, American Conference announce Dukes to join league by 2028
James Madison and the American Conference on Monday, Oct. 12, issued statements announcing the Dukes will become full members by no later than 2028.
- Yahoo SportsOct 12, 2026, 2:20 PMJames Madison votes to leave Sun Belt, will join the American Conference
The Dukes are currently 6-0 in football this season, including a 3-0 record in the Sun Belt.
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