Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Overview
The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) is a collegiate athletic conference that is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association's (NCAA) Division III. The conference, which is composed of nine member institutions, is primarily located in the state of Wisconsin. The WIAC sponsors 21 sports and has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1913.
History
The WIAC was founded in 1913 as the Wisconsin State Normal School Conference. The conference's original members were all teacher training institutions in Wisconsin. Over the years, the conference has undergone several name changes and membership changes. In 1951, the conference was renamed the Wisconsin State College Conference, and in 1964, it became the Wisconsin State University Conference. The current name, Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, was adopted in 1971.
Member Institutions
The WIAC is currently composed of nine member institutions. These include the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, University of Wisconsin-Platteville, University of Wisconsin-River Falls, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Superior, and University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Each university competes in a variety of sports within the conference.
Sports
The WIAC sponsors a total of 21 sports, including 10 men's sports and 11 women's sports. The men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, ice hockey, soccer, swimming and diving, track and field, and wrestling. The women's sports include basketball, cross country, golf, gymnastics, ice hockey, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.
Championships
Each year, the WIAC holds championships in each of its sponsored sports. The conference's championships are highly competitive, with many of its teams regularly advancing to the NCAA Division III championships. The WIAC has a strong tradition of success in both team and individual sports, with its member institutions winning numerous national championships over the years.
Academic Standards
The WIAC places a high emphasis on academic achievement among its student-athletes. The conference has established academic standards that its student-athletes must meet in order to compete. These standards include maintaining a minimum grade point average and making satisfactory progress toward a degree.