Who / What
The Big South Conference is a collegiate athletic conference in the southeastern United States. It affiliates with the NCAA’s Division I and sponsors several sports programs across its member institutions. The conference primarily consists of schools located in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, with a few associate members in Georgia and South Carolina.
Background & History
Founded in 1983, the Big South began as a non‑football conference dedicated to promoting intercollegiate competition in the South Atlantic region. In 2002 it expanded to sponsor football, joining the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). A significant partnership was formed in 2023 when the conference co‑operated with the Ohio Valley Conference to operate the OVC–Big South Football Association. These milestones have shaped the conference’s evolving athletics landscape.
Why Notable
The Big South has become a key player in NCAA Division I athletics, consistently producing competitive teams in basketball, baseball, and other sports. Its decision to add football in 2002 broadened opportunities for its member schools and enhanced regional rivalries. The 2023 collaboration with the Ohio Valley Conference reflects a strategic approach to resource sharing and conference stability. Collectively, these developments underscore the Big South’s influence on college sports in the southeastern United States.
In the News
The conference’s recent partnership with the Ohio Valley Conference has attracted attention for its potential to strengthen FCS football competition. Discussions about expanding football operations and maintaining a competitive edge remain current focus areas for Big South leadership. These initiatives underscore the conference’s continued relevance in shaping collegiate athletics today.
