original press release by NEWMAC conference office, click here to read. 

Marlborough, MA — The State University of New York New Paltz men's volleyball program will join the NEWMAC as an associate member ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The Hawks, who have been a member of the United Volleyball Conference since its inception in 2011, moves from one of the most competitive conferences in the country in Division III men's volleyball to another, as fellow UVC members NYU and Vassar will join alongside Springfield College, MIT, Emerson College and Wheaton College.

The UVC leadership is changing at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season with Patrick B. Summers assuming the role of Commissioner of the single-sport conference. The collaboration will allow the seven member institutions to access an automatic qualifier to the NCAA Division III Men's Volleyball Championship I the spring of 2027. Meanwhile, the NEWMAC will add men's volleyball as one of its now 21 sponsored varsity sports. They currently are finalizing a schedule and championship structure with conference play beginning in 2026-27. 

"We are thrilled to welcome three esteemed institutions as associate members, enhancing the competitiveness and prestige of our newest championship sport," said NEWMAC Executive Director Patrick B. Summers. "This achievement was made possible through the spirit of collaboration, and we are especially grateful to Empire 8 and UVC Commissioner Chuck Mitrano for his instrumental role in supporting a smooth and inclusive realignment process. His partnership ensured all institutions found a competitive home and maintained access to NCAA championship opportunities." 

SUNY New Paltz, which claimed three UVC titles and two national championships during its tenure in the United Volleyball Conference, will conclude its final season in the UVC this spring. The Hawks finished 14-14 overall and 4-3 in the UVC last season, while earning an appearance in the conference semifinal round before falling to No. 1 nationally ranked NYU. 


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