(From the Covenant College website) Covenant College has accepted an invitation to join the USA South Athletic Conference.

“We proudly welcome Covenant College as a member of the USA South,” says Rita Wiggs, commissioner of the conference. “They exemplify the pillars of the Division III and USA South philosophy of academic excellence, personal development and athletic competitiveness. Their strong and competitive athletic programs will provide perfect alliance with our current institutions. We look forward to their coaches and student-athletes competing in the USA South.”

Among the oldest conferences in the NCAA Division III, the USA South sponsors championships in fourteen sports, including men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, football, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s golf, and women’s lacrosse.

“We’re delighted to join the USA South Athletic Conference,” says Dr. Niel Nielson, president of Covenant College. “Along with our moving toward full NCAA Division III membership, this is the next step in providing a firm foundation and future for Covenant College athletics. We’re excited about what lies ahead in NCAA Division III and the USA South Conference.”

“This is an exciting day for Covenant College athletics,” says Tami Smialek, director of athletics for the Covenant Scots. “Our membership in the USA South Athletic Conference will allow our students to enjoy the full NCAA Division III experience.”

The Scots will begin competing in the conference in the 2013-2014 academic year.