Flagler College Athletics announced today that the College will begin a new era in 2027-28, officially joining the Sunshine State Conference as a full member. The move places Flagler in one of NCAA Division II’s premier conferences and strengthens the College’s presence across the state of Florida while aligning the Saints with fellow private institutions known for academic and athletic excellence.
For Flagler leadership, the announcement represents both an exciting opportunity and a natural progression for the College’s athletics program. Director of Athletics Jud Damon said the institution is grateful for the invitation and eager to begin competing in one of Division II’s most respected leagues.
“We are indeed grateful to the Sunshine State Conference, President Dr. James Annarelli, and Commissioner Chris Graham for extending this opportunity to us. It is an honor to be joining such a strong and prestigious conference and to be affiliated with all the fine SSC member institutions.” Damon said.
Today’s announcement follows unanimous support from conference leadership during the membership approval process, underscoring Flagler’s growing reputation in both academics and athletics and the enthusiasm surrounding its addition to the conference.
“There was unanimous and enthusiastic support on the SSC Presidents Council to approve Flagler's application for conference membership, and my Council colleagues and I are excited to welcome Flagler to the SSC family,” said Dr. James Annarelli, President of Eckerd College and current President of the SSC Presidents Council. “The addition of Flagler--a private, Florida institution with strong traditions of athletic success and academic achievement--to the "Conference of National Champions" is a natural development in the evolution of both Flagler College and the Sunshine State Conference.”
For Flagler College President John Delaney, the transition reflects the College’s broader momentum and continued rise in reputation, opportunity, and statewide influence. He said the timing is right for Flagler to align with institutions that share its commitment to excellence.
“This is a strategic moment in the continued evolution of Flagler College. As our institution grows in academic reputation, student opportunity, and statewide impact, the time is right to align with a conference that reflects those same standards of excellence. Joining the Sunshine State Conference places Flagler among distinguished peer institutions and positions our student-athletes to compete at the highest level while advancing the values of scholarship, leadership, and service that define this College.” Delaney said.
Conference officials also pointed to the practical benefits of the move, noting that Flagler’s addition strengthens scheduling balance across the league while adding another accomplished athletics department to an already elite conference lineup.
“Flagler’s sport sponsorship corresponds very well with our championship offerings, and moving to 12 member institutions aids all institutions with balanced scheduling while filling contest needs,” said SSC Commissioner Chris Graham. “The Saints field competitive, nationally recognized athletic and academic programs, and will add even greater depth to the strongest conference lineup in NCAA Division II.”
Membership in the SSC creates a strong strategic fit for Flagler academically, athletically, and geographically. The conference includes respected Florida institutions such as University of Tampa, Rollins College, Eckerd College, Florida Southern College, Barry University, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Regional matchups, including Flagler’s rivalry with Embry-Riddle, are expected to enhance school spirit and community engagement.
The move also strengthens recruiting visibility among prospective student-athletes considering colleges in Florida and enhances Flagler’s presence in every major Florida media market.
Flagler will join the SSC after 17 years as a proud member of the Peach Belt Conference, which the College entered on July 1, 2009. During that time, the Saints built one of the league’s most successful all-around programs.
Flagler won three Peach Belt Conference Commissioner’s Cups, including three of the last six awarded, earned the PBC Institution of the Year Sportsmanship Award eight times, and received 39 Peach Belt Conference Team Sportsmanship Awards. The Saints also captured 69 conference championships, made 111 NCAA Division II Tournament appearances, and claimed seven NCAA Division II Regional Championships.
The College also excelled academically during its time in the Peach Belt, earning the NCAA President’s Award for Academic Excellence 11 times.
Flagler leaders also served in conference leadership roles, with Delaney serving as vice chair of the Peach Belt Conference Presidents Council since 2022 and Damon previously serving two terms as chair of the Peach Belt Conference athletics directors group.
Flagler extended gratitude to Commissioner Diana Kling, former commissioner David Brunk, and all Peach Belt Conference member institutions for nearly two decades of partnership and shared success.
Additional details regarding schedules, championship competition, and the transition to Sunshine State Conference membership will be announced at a later date.
