Lone Star Conference
Overview
The Lone Star Conference (LSC) is a collegiate athletic conference affiliated with the NCAA Division II. Established in 1931, the conference is headquartered in Richardson, Texas, and primarily consists of institutions located in the southwestern United States. The LSC is renowned for its competitive balance, fostering a strong tradition of athletic excellence and academic achievement among its member institutions.
History
The Lone Star Conference was founded in 1931 by five schools from Texas: North Texas State Teachers College (now the University of North Texas), Sam Houston State Teachers College (now Sam Houston State University), Southwest Texas State Teachers College (now Texas State University), Stephen F. Austin State Teachers College (now Stephen F. Austin State University), and West Texas State Teachers College (now West Texas A&M University). The conference was established to promote intercollegiate athletics among small colleges in Texas and to provide a structured environment for competition.
Over the decades, the LSC has undergone numerous changes in membership, reflecting the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. The conference expanded beyond Texas, incorporating institutions from New Mexico and Oklahoma, and even briefly included schools from Arkansas and Louisiana. These changes have contributed to the rich history and diversity of the conference.
Member Institutions
The Lone Star Conference currently comprises 18 member institutions, each with its unique history and contributions to the conference. These institutions are spread across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, providing a broad geographic representation of the southwestern United States. The member schools are:
- Angelo State University
- Cameron University
- Dallas Baptist University
- Eastern New Mexico University
- Lubbock Christian University
- Midwestern State University
- Oklahoma Christian University
- St. Edward's University
- St. Mary's University
- Texas A&M International University
- Texas A&M University-Commerce
- Texas A&M University-Kingsville
- Texas Woman's University
- University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
- University of Texas at Tyler
- University of Texas Permian Basin
- West Texas A&M University
- Western New Mexico University
Each institution contributes to the conference's competitive landscape, offering a variety of sports programs and academic opportunities for student-athletes.
Sports and Championships
The Lone Star Conference sponsors a wide range of sports, providing student-athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level while pursuing their academic goals. The conference offers championships in the following sports:
Men's Sports
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Football
- Golf
- Soccer
- Tennis
- Track and Field (Indoor and Outdoor)
Women's Sports
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Soccer
- Softball
- Tennis
- Track and Field (Indoor and Outdoor)
- Volleyball
The LSC is particularly noted for its competitive football and basketball programs, which have produced numerous professional athletes and coaches. The conference's commitment to excellence is reflected in its rigorous championship events, which are held annually to determine the top teams in each sport.
Academic and Athletic Excellence
The Lone Star Conference places a strong emphasis on the balance between academics and athletics, encouraging student-athletes to excel in both areas. The conference's member institutions offer a wide range of academic programs, fostering an environment where student-athletes can pursue their educational and career goals while competing at a high level in their chosen sports.
The LSC has implemented various initiatives to support academic achievement, including academic awards and scholarships for student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in the classroom. These efforts have contributed to the conference's reputation as a leader in promoting the holistic development of student-athletes.
Governance and Administration
The Lone Star Conference is governed by a council of presidents, which includes the presidents of each member institution. This council is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the conference and ensuring that its policies align with the values and goals of its member schools.
The day-to-day operations of the conference are managed by a commissioner, who oversees the implementation of policies and the organization of championship events. The commissioner works closely with athletic directors and coaches from member institutions to ensure that the conference maintains its high standards of competition and sportsmanship.
Rivalries and Traditions
The Lone Star Conference is home to several longstanding rivalries that add excitement and intensity to its athletic competitions. These rivalries often stem from geographic proximity and historical matchups, creating a sense of tradition and pride among the participating schools.
One of the most notable rivalries in the LSC is between West Texas A&M University and Eastern New Mexico University, known as the "Wagon Wheel" rivalry. This annual football game is highly anticipated by fans and players alike, with the winner taking home the coveted Wagon Wheel trophy.
Other significant rivalries include matchups between Texas A&M University-Commerce and Midwestern State University, as well as Angelo State University and Texas A&M University-Kingsville. These rivalries contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the conference and enhance the overall experience for student-athletes and fans.
Impact and Legacy
The Lone Star Conference has made a significant impact on collegiate athletics, both regionally and nationally. Its commitment to fostering a competitive and supportive environment for student-athletes has resulted in numerous achievements on and off the field.
The conference has produced a number of professional athletes who have gone on to successful careers in various sports leagues, including the NFL and MLB. Additionally, the LSC has been a leader in promoting diversity and inclusion within collegiate athletics, providing opportunities for student-athletes from diverse backgrounds to succeed.
The legacy of the Lone Star Conference is reflected in the accomplishments of its member institutions and the success of its student-athletes. As the conference continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to upholding its tradition of excellence and providing a platform for future generations of student-athletes to thrive.