The Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Council of Presidents voted unanimously to approve the University of Pikeville (UPIKE) for full membership earlier this week. UPIKE will transition to compete in the conference beginning in the fall of 2023.
UPIKE becomes the third AAC member from Kentucky, joined by Kentucky Christian and Union College, and keeps the conference at 16 full members. University of the Cumberlands and Georgetown College also maintains affiliate membership within the AAC.
“I am beyond thrilled that UPIKE will be joining the Appalachian Athletic Conference,” said UPIKE Director of Athletics Kelly Wells. “We are thankful to the AAC Council of Presidents, AAC Athletic Directors, AAC Administrative Staff, and Commissioner Bill Popp for the opportunity to become a member.”
UPIKE has competed in the Mid-South Conference since the 2000-01 academic season and will transition to full membership in the AAC to start the 2023-24 season. University and athletic administration are confident the move will enrich the student-athlete experience.
In 2023-24, the full members will be Bluefield University, Brenau University, Bryan College, Columbia College, Columbia International University, Johnson University, Kentucky Christian University, Milligan University, Montreat College;
University of Pikeville, Point University, Reinhardt University, SCAD Atlanta, St. Andrews University, Tennessee Wesleyan University, Truett McConnell University, and Union College.
The affiliate members will be Brewton-Parker College, Georgetown College, Keiser University, Life University, Point University, SCAD Savannah, Southeastern University, St. Thomas University, University of the Cumberlands, Warner University, Webber International University, and West Virginia Institute of Technology.