“We are in a Better Place”: The Effect of Conference Realignment on the Culture of One NCAA Division I Athletic Department
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17161/jis.v19i3.24368Keywords:
conference realignment, culture, leadershipAbstract
Conference realignment is among the most transformational changes in intercollegiate athletics. The financial ramifications of realignment are significant. Though these have garnered the most attention, many changes stemming from realignment deal with qualitative elements of athletic departments. Altering rivalries, traditions, and sport sponsorship could affect athletic department cultures, yet little research has examined them. Therefore, this study used the organizational culture perspective to investigate the effects of conference realignment on the culture of Erie University’s athletic department. In 2013, Erie joined the Catholic Athletic Conference (CAC). To assess the effect of this change on Erie’s athletic culture, 20 interviews with coaches and administrators were conducted before the move and 16 were conducted two years after. Interview and other archival data were interpreted using thematic analysis. Findings indicate the athletic department culture shifted following two years of CAC membership. Participants conveyed an improved sense of pride and better institutional alignment. This culture change occurred despite a noticeable lack of success and lingering resource shortfalls. Erie’s realignment reflected consistencies and inconsistences with existing literature on conference change. The findings highlight the psychological power of affiliation and the importance of institutional alignment when changing conferences.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Pete Schroeder, Alex Barclay
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