MAC ANNOUNCEMENT

FAIRFAX, Va. – The George Mason wrestling program will begin competing in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) beginning with the 2019-20 season, the league announced on Tuesday.

"I am pleased to welcome our new additions to the Mid-American Conference that have strong traditions in the sport of wrestling. Our membership spent significant time discussing and studying the possible inclusion of these new members and we believe this will strengthen what has already grown into an elite wrestling league," said Dr. Jon A. Steinbrecher, Commissioner of the Mid-American Conference.  "This addition of affiliate members is good for the Mid-American Conference, and good for collegiate wrestling. It broadens our footprint across a part of the country where youth, high school, and collegiate wrestling is very strong. I look forward to the 2019-20 season when our new and enhanced membership begins competition."

Mason, along with Bloomsburg, Clarion, Cleveland State, Edinboro, Lock haven and Rider have all joined the MAC from the Eastern Wrestling League (EWL).

"We are excited to have George Mason wrestling affiliated with the Mid-American Conference," said Director of Athletic's Brad Edwards.  "Our wrestling program will benefit greatly by being associated with this nationally-recognized wrestling conference. We look forward to the opportunity to renew old rivalries and create new institutional relationships." 

The Patriots, along with Rider, joined the EWL prior to the 2013-14 season.

With the addition of the seven new programs, the MAC will have a total of 15 members, making it the second-largest NCAA Division I Wrestling conference in the nation.

The MAC will now include Buffalo, Central Michigan, Kent State, Northern Illinois, and Ohio, along with current affiliates Missouri, Old Dominion and SIU-Edwardsville.

Mason is hosting the EWL Championships on Saturday, Mar. 9 at EagleBank Arena in Fairfax, Va.