The University of Mary Washington is proud to announce the addition of Men's Volleyball as a NCAA sport as well as the elevation of Cheerleading to intercollegiate status beginning in the 2027-28 academic year.
 
With these additions, UMW will sponsor 24 intercollegiate sports, with men's volleyball becoming the University's 19th NCAA Division III sport. Head coaches for both programs will be hired this fall, with recruiting efforts beginning immediately and both programs becoming operational in Fall 2027.
 
"Elevating our cheer program to intercollegiate status and adding men's volleyball reflects our commitment to growing opportunities for student-athletes and strengthening UMW Athletics at the regional and national level," said UMW Director of Athletics Patrick Catullo. "Cheer will enhance the game day experience for several of our sports teams while also competing in collegiate competitions, and men's volleyball allows UMW to get involved with one of the fastest-growing sports at the high school level. Both programs align directly with the university's strategic priorities, and we're excited about the impact they'll have — not just for the athletes who will compete for us, but for the entire Eagles community."
 
Men's volleyball will begin with a nontraditional season during Fall 2027 before officially launching its inaugural season in Spring 2028. Men's volleyball is one of the fastest-growing boys' high school sports in the United States, experiencing 51% growth over the past six years. At the collegiate level, 13 NCAA Division III conferences currently sponsor men's volleyball, including the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference, where three member institutions already sponsor the sport.
 
Cheerleading will make its intercollegiate debut in Fall 2027, supporting UMW Athletics on the sidelines at volleyball and basketball contests while also serving as ambassadors for the University at campus and community events throughout the year. As the program grows, UMW plans to expand into competitive cheerleading, with the long-term goal of participating in regional and national championship events.
 
UMW currently sponsors club men's volleyball and club cheerleading programs. The University will conduct open tryouts for both new intercollegiate programs while also engaging in active recruiting efforts throughout the coming year.