UMass > MAC for all sports in 2025-2026

[Rufus]

Full Press Conference -

 

[Kolumbo]

Full Press Conference -

the coaches come on at the 51 minute mark

 

[Steve1981]

Listen for the past hour, actually 1:20 minutes as almost the first 20 minutes was waiting. Talks started in September, they talk about faculty, academics, facility consortium and our Chancellor jumped in as he was a product of the facility consortium. Not positive if was called facility consortium, but was about building the next department head, provost etc while Javier Reyes was at Arkansas in the SEC. Seemed very thoughtful, covering athletics, facility, students, campus vision. Not really much rahrahrah. Commissioner Steinbrecher was quietly on campus during a game in November and disappointed did not seem him.

This has a feel of a long term commitment. The investment in athletics will accelerate with 8 to 10 times the conference revenue growth. As our AD said, we are hitting the gas, no brakes. Frank Martin is a real team player, his wife ran track at UMass, football helps raise all programs and their budgets all went up from his career. Don Brown and Frank Martin had offices next to each other at Northeastern. They both recruit in programs that were at the bottom with no bells and whistles. You recruit players that believe in your vision, the school and not the conference.

 

[Bongo Fury]

Reyes is new and has attended more athletic events in the months that he has been here than Swamy did in like 13 years.

 

[huskymedic]

 

[Vuce]

Listen for the past hour, actually 1:20 minutes as almost the first 20 minutes was waiting. Talks started in September, they talk about faculty, academics, facility consortium and our Chancellor jumped in as he was a product of the facility consortium. Not positive if was called facility consortium, but was about building the next department head, provost etc while Javier Reyes was at Arkansas in the SEC. Seemed very thoughtful, covering athletics, facility, students, campus vision. Not really much rahrahrah. Commissioner Steinbrecher was quietly on campus during a game in November and disappointed did not seem him.

This has a feel of a long term commitment. The investment in athletics will accelerate with 8 to 10 times the conference revenue growth. As our AD said, we are hitting the gas, no brakes. Frank Martin is a real team player, his wife ran track at UMass, football helps raise all programs and their budgets all went up from his career. Don Brown and Frank Martin had offices next to each other at Northeastern. They both recruit in programs that were at the bottom with no bells and whistles. You recruit players that believe in your vision, the school and not the conference.

regardless - HUGE step down in basketball

 

[Steve1981]

regardless - HUGE step down in basketball

Still NCAAT is even more likely. It's not like being repeat Natty in both men's and women's basketball alone will get you in a power conference. It's all about football. But hey, at least you guys have a shot at the x number of times that you have been runners up to the P5. Think the ACC is a legitimate shot for you guys and wish you luck.

 

[Vuce]

Still NCAAT is even more likely. It's not like being repeat Natty in both men's and women's basketball alone will get you in a power conference. It's all about football. But hey, at least you guys have a shot at the x number of times that you have been runners up to the P5. Think the ACC is a legitimate shot for you guys and wish you luck.

Will be a boost for UMass football and tremendous downgrade for hoops. Those MAC games at Mullins will not draw flies save for maybe the last 2 or 3 home games IF UMass is in contention for a league title - but will still need to win the postseason tourney. There are zero at large bids in the MAC. Those years where UMass is middle of the pack or worse, it'll be family and friends at Mullins. Would be better to move back to The Cage - at least it'll seem full and atmosphere would be better. Will football still play in the high school stadium or are they building a new place? I havent heard anything about that. The only hope is to eventually move into a different conference. If time passes and we are 5+ years out and UMass is still in the MAC, it'll be a hockey school and little more than that.

 

[Bongo Fury]

Eh, looks like there is is increased interest in supporting UMass athletics. It is what they need.

 

[huskymedic]

Briggs: MAC ADs tell all on league's best — and toughest — football jobs, weeknight games, and 'head-scratching' addition of UMass

As threequels go, it is not quite the perfection of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but, hey, it’s not RoboCop 3, either. No, our crusading last ...

www.toledoblade.com

-> One word to describe your response to the MAC adding UMass?

■ “Opportunity.”

■ “WTF? We didn’t talk through it much. The presidents had all the conversations, but, when you ask them about it and you start digging into specifics, they had no clue what questions to ask. It’s going to cost us half a million more in travel.”

■ “Is ‘head-scratcher’ one word? I don’t want to necessarily say ‘disappointing’, but ‘surprised’ might be the right word.”

■ “Curious.”

■ “Confusing … Great get academically and athletically, but I’m still trying to figure it out.”

■ “Opportunistic. Quite frankly, I didn’t mind it. I know some of my peers share an opposite opinion, but, from the standpoint of enhancing the brand of the league, adding a school like UMass helps.”

■ “[Laughs] I could not begin to sum that up in one word. Sudden. I would not say ‘strategic’, since we’re talking anonymously.” <-

 

[Kolumbo]

Briggs: MAC ADs tell all on league's best — and toughest — football jobs, weeknight games, and 'head-scratching' addition of UMass

As threequels go, it is not quite the perfection of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, but, hey, it’s not RoboCop 3, either. No, our crusading last ...

www.toledoblade.com

-> One word to describe your response to the MAC adding UMass?

■ “Opportunity.”

■ “WTF? We didn’t talk through it much. The presidents had all the conversations, but, when you ask them about it and you start digging into specifics, they had no clue what questions to ask. It’s going to cost us half a million more in travel.”

■ “Is ‘head-scratcher’ one word? I don’t want to necessarily say ‘disappointing’, but ‘surprised’ might be the right word.”

■ “Curious.”

■ “Confusing … Great get academically and athletically, but I’m still trying to figure it out.”

■ “Opportunistic. Quite frankly, I didn’t mind it. I know some of my peers share an opposite opinion, but, from the standpoint of enhancing the brand of the league, adding a school like UMass helps.”

■ “[Laughs] I could not begin to sum that up in one word. Sudden. I would not say ‘strategic’, since we’re talking anonymously.” <-

This is very strange. as one AD said, “Confusing … Great get academically and athletically, but I’m still trying to figure it out.”
Why is adding UMass "confusing?" UMass will rank 2nd in enrollment behind Buffalo and just ahead of Kent State, 4th in endowment. Geographically it isn't so bad.

 

[UConnJim]

This is very strange. as one AD said, “Confusing … Great get academically and athletically, but I’m still trying to figure it out.”
Why is adding UMass "confusing?" UMass will rank 2nd in enrollment behind Buffalo and just ahead of Kent State, 4th in endowment. Geographically it isn't so bad.

Why confusing? UMass doesn't increase media revenues and probably doesn't increase ticket revenues plus it would be a plane ride for most sports. So, net/net, it will probably cost members to add UMass. Remember, the MAC is a low budget conference.

 

[Kolumbo]

Why confusing? UMass doesn't increase media revenues and probably doesn't increase ticket revenues plus it would be a plane ride for most sports. So, net/net, it will probably cost members to add UMass. Remember, the MAC is a low budget conference.

Not sure how it will affect media revenues going forward. It expands the MAC conference into New England and grows the conference. I suppose if one looks at only one variable, he might be confused, but he should know better than that.

"The opportunity to add a state flagship institution with exceptional academics and a storied athletics tradition does not come along often."

"“The addition of UMass expands our geographic footprint into the Northeast, which is a very attractive market, and it will strengthen our league for many years to come,” said Geoffrey S. Mearns, Council of Presidents Chair and President of Ball State University. “With an outstanding academic reputation and an excellent record of athletic success, UMass aligns fully with the MAC’s mission and our core values.”"

Mid-American Conference to Add University of Massachusetts as Full Member

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Mid-American Conference (MAC) Council of Presidents have voted unanimously to add the University of Massachusetts (UMass) as a full member in all sports, beginning with the 2025-26 academic season. The move will bring the conference’s membership to 13 institutions.

getsomemaction.com

 

[huskymedic]

Not sure how it will affect media revenues going forward. It expands the MAC conference into New England and grows the conference. I suppose if one looks at only one variable, he might be confused, but he should know better than that.

"The opportunity to add a state flagship institution with exceptional academics and a storied athletics tradition does not come along often."

"“The addition of UMass expands our geographic footprint into the Northeast, which is a very attractive market, and it will strengthen our league for many years to come,” said Geoffrey S. Mearns, Council of Presidents Chair and President of Ball State University. “With an outstanding academic reputation and an excellent record of athletic success, UMass aligns fully with the MAC’s mission and our core values.”"

Mid-American Conference to Add University of Massachusetts as Full Member

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Mid-American Conference (MAC) Council of Presidents have voted unanimously to add the University of Massachusetts (UMass) as a full member in all sports, beginning with the 2025-26 academic season. The move will bring the conference’s membership to 13 institutions.

getsomemaction.com

You don’t think there might be different perspectives btwn Athletic Directors and University Presidents?

 

[Kolumbo]

You don’t think there might be different perspectives btwn Athletic Directors and University Presidents?

Of course there are and some ADs may not agree with the presidents. But if this particular AD is confused, he should probably resign and do the university a favor. He may not get that playing in New England presents opportunities which would be sad.

 

[Huskygrad88]

Of course there are and some ADs may not agree with the presidents. But if this particular AD is confused, he should probably resign and do the university a favor. He may not get that playing in New England presents opportunities which would be sad.

I am not sure of a true benefit. UMass is not good at football, they don’t bring a big game atmosphere, no one cares about the team and so you are not adding a bunch of viewers, they are best at hockey which I assume stays in hockey east, this adds another plane trip, MA is not exactly a recruiting hotbed for teams already in the mid west, etc. what is the benefit to the MAC?

 

[dayooper]

I am not sure of a true benefit. UMass is not good at football, they don’t bring a big game atmosphere, no one cares about the team and so you are not adding a bunch of viewers, they are best at hockey which I assume stays in hockey east, this adds another plane trip, MA is not exactly a recruiting hotbed for teams already in the mid west, etc. what is the benefit to the MAC?

Basketball name and someone closer to Buffalo?

 

[Kolumbo]

I am not sure of a true benefit. UMass is not good at football, they don’t bring a big game atmosphere, no one cares about the team and so you are not adding a bunch of viewers, they are best at hockey which I assume stays in hockey east, this adds another plane trip, MA is not exactly a recruiting hotbed for teams already in the mid west, etc. what is the benefit to the MAC?

I know we UConn Football fans always hope for change, even though hope is a dangerous thing. We firmly believe UConn Football will be good again especially given a level playing field. The same is true for UMass.

The MAC is entirely in the B1G shadow. Seems to me playing in the Northeast more frequently would open up recruiting to kids who aren't going to a power conference. There are clear benefits to adding UMass.

From afterthought to talent haven: Why New England suddenly matters in CFB recruiting

Once an afterthought for college football prospects, New England has become a place for blue blood programs to recruit with seven four-star players in the 2023 class and three top-100 players in 2024.

247sports.com

 

[CJasmer]

I am not sure of a true benefit. UMass is not good at football, they don’t bring a big game atmosphere, no one cares about the team and so you are not adding a bunch of viewers, they are best at hockey which I assume stays in hockey east, this adds another plane trip, MA is not exactly a recruiting hotbed for teams already in the mid west, etc. what is the benefit to the MAC?

Only difference between UConn and UMass is UConn is good in basketball.

 

[CJasmer]

I am not sure of a true benefit. UMass is not good at football, they don’t bring a big game atmosphere, no one cares about the team and so you are not adding a bunch of viewers, they are best at hockey which I assume stays in hockey east, this adds another plane trip, MA is not exactly a recruiting hotbed for teams already in the mid west, etc. what is the benefit to the MAC?

You are also describing UConn football.

 

[CJasmer]

I know we UConn Football fans always hope for change, even though hope is a dangerous thing. We firmly believe UConn Football will be good again especially given a level playing field. The same is true for UMass.

The MAC is entirely in the B1G shadow. Seems to me playing in the Northeast more frequently would open up recruiting to kids who aren't going to a power conference. There are clear benefits to adding UMass.

From afterthought to talent haven: Why New England suddenly matters in CFB recruiting

Once an afterthought for college football prospects, New England has become a place for blue blood programs to recruit with seven four-star players in the 2023 class and three top-100 players in 2024.

247sports.com

I think UConn fans have rose color glasses of UConn ever being “good” at football. UConn was a mediocre to okay team in the best years. Could beat bad FBS teams but was not remotely challenging for FBS championship. Never finished a year in top 25. Also there is not a big time college football atmosphere at the Rent. The rent capacity is only around 38k without adding seats which was done for Michigan game to get it to 40k. Compare that to SEC or BIG teams where they draw more than 40k plus for spring football game. The reason is CT population is locked into NFL and not into college football.

 

[huskymedic]

-> After criticizing the MAC’s decision to add Massachusetts, the Toledo Blade’s David Briggs talks with Minutemen AD Ryan Bamford, who explains that while UMass has enjoyed success in men’s basketball and hockey, football drives everything. “[Decisions] are not being made outside of football conferences. We didn’t have that vote. We didn’t have the ability to have our voice heard.” If all goes according to plan, UMass’ presence in a football conference will help lift the entire department, and Bamford notes: “We had 13,000 for our game here against Eastern Michigan on Saturday. There aren’t a lot of things that draw 13,000 people to campus or anything in Western Massachusetts for a three-hour period of time. Football can be the front porch of an institution. We have a strong desire to position our football program appropriately to compete for championships.” Given UMass’ previous difficulties in the MAC and other hurdles to building a successful football program, Briggs asks why the Minutemen don’t return to FCS and continue to compete in the Atlantic 10 in other sports. Bamford replies: “We’re extremely aspirational. We’ve seen it in our academic profile…and we want athletics to complement the academic and research pedigree, to be the front porch. If you look across state flagship schools, 43 of the 50 are in the Football Bowl Subdivision. That’s an important aspect of growing our university. At a time when there are less college-aged students coming into age in the next 10 years, athletics can be a vehicle to get people to engage with the institution.” (link) <-

Briggs: I crushed UMass for joining MAC. Its AD tells me why I'm wrong

If Ryan Bamford had not taken my call, I would not have blamed him. Bamford is the athletic director at the University of Massachusetts, and I’ve dragged ...

www.toledoblade.com

 

[shizzle787]

-> After criticizing the MAC’s decision to add Massachusetts, the Toledo Blade’s David Briggs talks with Minutemen AD Ryan Bamford, who explains that while UMass has enjoyed success in men’s basketball and hockey, football drives everything. “[Decisions] are not being made outside of football conferences. We didn’t have that vote. We didn’t have the ability to have our voice heard.” If all goes according to plan, UMass’ presence in a football conference will help lift the entire department, and Bamford notes: “We had 13,000 for our game here against Eastern Michigan on Saturday. There aren’t a lot of things that draw 13,000 people to campus or anything in Western Massachusetts for a three-hour period of time. Football can be the front porch of an institution. We have a strong desire to position our football program appropriately to compete for championships.” Given UMass’ previous difficulties in the MAC and other hurdles to building a successful football program, Briggs asks why the Minutemen don’t return to FCS and continue to compete in the Atlantic 10 in other sports. Bamford replies: “We’re extremely aspirational. We’ve seen it in our academic profile…and we want athletics to complement the academic and research pedigree, to be the front porch. If you look across state flagship schools, 43 of the 50 are in the Football Bowl Subdivision. That’s an important aspect of growing our university. At a time when there are less college-aged students coming into age in the next 10 years, athletics can be a vehicle to get people to engage with the institution.” (link) <-

Briggs: I crushed UMass for joining MAC. Its AD tells me why I'm wrong

If Ryan Bamford had not taken my call, I would not have blamed him. Bamford is the athletic director at the University of Massachusetts, and I’ve dragged ...

www.toledoblade.com

They should have dropped down. They have sold out their 17,000 seat stadium just 3 times in over 40 years and there is zero talent in Western Mass. The aspirational flagship quote is questionable because UConn is the only other flagship in New England in FBS.

 

[KryHavok]

They should have dropped down. They have sold out their 17,000 seat stadium just 3 times in over 40 years and there is zero talent in Western Mass. The aspirational flagship quote is questionable because UConn is the only other flagship in New England in FBS.

This type of comment can cut both ways in the sense that others have said the same for our program. In the last 10 years we've not had the sellouts that early 00's had, though we know that with success we can pack a stadium. That said, I think UConn has put more investment into facilities, but the investment in coaching hasn't been on par with the peers we want to be associated with.

 

[Vuce]

They should have dropped down. They have sold out their 17,000 seat stadium just 3 times in over 40 years and there is zero talent in Western Mass. The aspirational flagship quote is questionable because UConn is the only other flagship in New England in FBS.

Football at UMass is simply something to do on a fall day in Amherst - vast majority of people dont care and they normally get less than 10K fans for these games and a ton of those leave after halftime. MAC opponents will not draw there unless UMass is playing for a league championship. There has been some buzz in hoops with Frank Martin but that will evaporate in the MAC unless they are winning big each year.