The Patriot League has officially announced that Villanova University will join the conference as an associate member for football beginning with the 2026 season.
Villanova becomes the third team to join the Patriot League as a football-only member since May 2024. The Wildcats follow fellow former CAA rivals Richmond and William & Mary in making the move.
“This marks a significant and exciting moment for the Patriot League,” said Commissioner Jennifer Heppel. “Villanova has proven itself as one of the top programs in the FCS, with a strong record of success on the field and a commitment to academic excellence. With the additions of Villanova, Richmond, and William & Mary, along with our current members, the Patriot League is now one of the strongest conferences in the FCS.”
Villanova officials expressed enthusiasm about the move. Eric Roedl, Vice President and Director of Athletics, said, “We are honored to join the Patriot League, which is a great geographic and academic fit for our university. We look forward to competing in a conference that values both athletic achievement and academic integrity.”
The addition of Villanova expands the Patriot League’s FCS football membership to 10 programs. The full list includes founding members Bucknell, Colgate, Holy Cross, Lafayette, and Lehigh, as well as associate members Fordham, Georgetown, Richmond, William & Mary, and now Villanova.
Colgate University President Brian W. Casey, Chair of the Patriot League Council of Presidents, welcomed Villanova by saying, “This addition brings new energy and strengthens the competitive and academic fabric of the League.”
Villanova President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, highlighted the alignment between the Patriot League’s values and Villanova’s mission. “This move reflects our dedication to the full development of student-athletes and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field.”
Head Coach Mark Ferrante added that the decision makes sense for the team. “The Patriot League’s geography fits well for our program, and we expect to build strong rivalries while upholding our commitment to high-level performance in the classroom and on the field.”
The Patriot League had not added a football program since Georgetown joined in 2001. Prior to these latest moves, the League never had more than eight football-playing schools.
Starting in 2026, the 10 Patriot League programs will continue to compete for the league title and an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I FCS Championship. Since 2015, eight of these teams have appeared in national rankings and have combined for 17 FCS playoff wins. Colgate, Richmond, and Villanova have each reached the quarterfinals twice, while Holy Cross and William & Mary have also advanced that far once.
With a full round-robin schedule planned, each team will play the other nine once per season.
“Having every team face off creates meaningful rivalries and builds traditions,” said Heppel. “It will enhance the experience for our athletes, coaches, and fans, and raise the national profile of the Patriot League.”
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