UMass Set to Rejoin MAC Conference for All Sports in 2025 After Decade-Long Hiatus

According to multiple reports, UMass is poised to re-enter the MAC Conference for all sports beginning in the 2025-26 academic year. This marks a significant comeback for UMass’ football program, which previously participated in the MAC from 2012 to 2015 before transitioning from the Football Championship Subdivision. Presently, UMass’ other sports compete in the Atlantic 10.

Since departing from the MAC in 2015, UMass football has operated independently. Throughout this period, the Minutemen have undergone three coaching changes and have failed to secure a bowl game appearance. Under the guidance of coach Don Brown, who returned to the program in 2022, UMass recently completed its second consecutive season.

Brown previously coached UMass from 2004 to 2008 during its time in the Atlantic 10 and later the Colonial Athletic Association. He achieved two conference titles and led the team to two FCS playoff berths before departing in 2009. Since his return, Brown has amassed a 4-20 record over two seasons, including three victories in the 2023 season, marking the program’s highest win total since 2018.

UMass’ inclusion will expand the MAC’s membership to 13 teams, which would traditionally prompt a divisional setup. However, the MAC announced in November that it would discontinue divisions after the 2023 season. Moving forward, teams will compete in a linear fashion within the 13-team standings, aligning with the majority of modern conferences.

UMass’ History with the MAC UMass initiated its transition to the FBS level in 2011 with the backing of the MAC. It commenced its association with the conference as a football-only participant in 2012, earning eligibility for the conference championship game and postseason contests in 2013.

Despite its tenure in the MAC, UMass struggled to find success, never surpassing three wins in a single season and failing to achieve a winning conference record. The majority of its seven MAC victories occurred in its final two seasons, guided by veteran coach Mark Whipple.

In March 2014, UMass announced its departure from the MAC following the 2015 season, declining full conference membership. Despite the league’s extension of its football-only contract through 2015, UMass was presented with an ultimatum requiring full membership to retain its position beyond that period.