Augusta Golf Teams Join West Coast Conference in 2025-26

Augusta University's golf programs are making headlines this week after the university confirmed that both the men's and women's teams will join the West Coast Conference as affiliate members starting in the 2025-26 academic year, according to details published by Golfweek and other outlets. The move marks a shift from the Jaguars' previous affiliation with the Southland Conference and underscores Augusta's growing national profile in Division I golf.

The decision matters now because Augusta University athletics occupies a unique position in the NCAA landscape. The Jaguars compete in 13 NCAA Division II varsity sports-mostly within the Peach Belt Conference-but their golf teams operate at the Division I level, making conference realignment a significant strategic play. By joining the West Coast Conference, Augusta's golfers gain access to a schedule that includes perennial national contenders and higher-profile postseason opportunities.

Cross Country Keeps Rolling

While golf grabs the headlines, Augusta University's cross country programs have quietly built a powerhouse of their own. Both the men's and women's teams have qualified for the NCAA national championship in multiple recent years. The men's squad, in particular, earned its fifth national championship berth since 2017, according to the university's athletics website. That kind of consistency places the Jaguars among the elite distance programs in Division II.

The women's basketball team also gave fans a reason to cheer this past season. The Jaguars advanced to the Peach Belt Conference Tournament championship game after an 82-71 upset victory over Columbus State on March 7. Though the run fell short of a title, the trip marked the program's deepest postseason push in years.

Augusta Tech's Athletic Resurrection

Across town, Augusta Tech is planning to resurrect campus athletics with new football and basketball teams. According to a Jagwire report on the university's athletics page, basketball will likely be introduced first due to lower startup costs. No timeline has been set, but the move signals growing interest in expanding the local college sports scene beyond Augusta University.

Augusta Recreation & Parks continues to support youth basketball as a community-building tool, with Winter season registration currently open for boys and girls ages 5-17, according to the department's website. The program focuses on fundamentals, teamwork and self-respect-the same values that drive success at the collegiate level.

With golf heading to a new conference, cross country chasing national titles, and basketball programs on the rise, Augusta's college sports landscape is evolving faster than ever.