Graceland University, a private liberal arts university located in Lamoni, Iowa, has a rich athletic history, with its football team being one of the most popular sports on campus. As a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), Graceland University's football team competes at the highest level of collegiate athletics outside of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). In this article, we will delve into the world of NAIA athletics and explore what it means for Graceland University's football team to be part of this prestigious organization.
What is the NAIA?
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is a collegiate athletic association that governs 256 member institutions across the United States and Canada. Founded in 1937, the NAIA is the largest collegiate athletic association in the United States, with over 60,000 student-athletes participating in 27 different sports. The NAIA is divided into two divisions: Division I and Division II, with Graceland University's football team competing in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) of the NAIA's Division I.
Benefits of NAIA Membership
Being a member of the NAIA provides Graceland University's football team with numerous benefits, including:
- Competitive Athletics: The NAIA offers a highly competitive athletic environment, with top-notch teams and athletes from across the country.
- Scholarship Opportunities: NAIA member institutions are allowed to offer athletic scholarships to student-athletes, providing them with financial assistance to pursue their academic and athletic goals.
- National Championships: The NAIA hosts national championships in each of its 27 sports, providing Graceland University's football team with the opportunity to compete for a national title.
- Character-Driven Athletics: The NAIA emphasizes the importance of character-driven athletics, promoting the development of student-athletes who excel both on and off the field.
Graceland University's Football Team
Graceland University's football team has a rich history, dating back to 1893. The team has won several conference championships and has appeared in multiple national tournaments. With a strong commitment to character-driven athletics, the team emphasizes the importance of developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the field.
- Conference Championships: Graceland University's football team has won several conference championships, including the HAAC championship in 2017.
- National Tournament Appearances: The team has appeared in multiple national tournaments, including the NAIA Football National Championship in 2017.
- Character-Driven Athletics: Graceland University's football team emphasizes the importance of character-driven athletics, promoting the development of student-athletes who excel both on and off the field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Graceland University's football team is proud to be a member of the NAIA, competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics outside of the NCAA. With a rich history, strong commitment to character-driven athletics, and numerous benefits, being a member of the NAIA provides the team with a competitive and supportive environment to excel both on and off the field.
Gallery of Graceland University Football
FAQs
What is the NAIA?
+The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is a collegiate athletic association that governs 256 member institutions across the United States and Canada.
What division does Graceland University's football team compete in?
+Graceland University's football team competes in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) of the NAIA's Division I.
What are the benefits of NAIA membership for Graceland University's football team?
+The benefits of NAIA membership for Graceland University's football team include competitive athletics, scholarship opportunities, national championships, and character-driven athletics.