Old Dominion seeks to ensure Conference USA’s ‘viability and attractiveness’ as schools prepare to leave
Despite the reportedly inevitable departures of several schools from Conference USA, Old Dominion appears for now to be committed to remaining in the expansive league.
C-USA members Alabama Birmingham, Charlotte, Florida Atlantic, North Texas, Rice and Texas San Antonio are expected to apply to join the American Athletic Conference this week, according to Yahoo Sports.
In a statement released Tuesday, ODU president Brian O. Hemphill acknowledged that the other schools are “having discussions” about joining the AAC.
“ODU officials are tracking these discussions and activities,” Hemphill said. “We are also actively engaged in a number of conversations to ensure the long-term viability and attractiveness of C-USA for ODU, especially for our student-athletes and dedicated fans.”
C-USA ranges from ODU in the east to Texas El Paso in the west and includes one school in West Virginia and two in Florida, creating unique travel challenges for member schools.
ODU joined the Football Bowl Subdivision and C-USA in 2014 after leaving the Colonial Athletic Association.
The Monarchs seem content to stay put in the league, which could shrink in size and scope.
“By working together with our partners at C-USA,” Hemphill said, “we are optimistic about attracting additional members with a regional benefit to ODU, resulting in less travel and greater competition for many years to come.”
David Hall, david.hall@pilotonline.com
