Aug. 29, 2005

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Stony Brook University renewed its agreement to remain an associate member of the Northeast Conference in the sport of football through 2010, it was announced today by NEC Commissioner John Iamarino. The four-year extension takes effect following the 2006 season. The University at Albany also extended its commitment through 2010. Both schools initially agreed to a three-year commitment when they joined the I-AA football conference in 1999 and extended the contract through 2006 in May, 2002.

"The NEC is very pleased with the commitment renewals on the part of the University at Albany and Stony Brook University," said NEC Commissioner John Iamarino. "They have become valuable franchises in our overall improvement. Their commitment helps solidify future scheduling and the long-term health of NEC football."

Albany began sponsoring football as a varsity sport in 1973, while Stony Brook introduced football in 1984. Both institutions competed as an NCAA Division III program until the mid-90s, when the move was made to Division II. They each upgraded to Division I-AA upon joining the NEC in 1999.

The Northeast Conference, which begins its 10th season of football this Saturday, consists of 11 institutions of higher learning located throughout five states and is celebrating its 25th year as an NCAA Division I collegiate athletic association. The NEC began sponsoring football at the I-AA level in 1996, and has since increased its membership from five to eight institutions. Central Connecticut State, Monmouth, Robert Morris, Sacred Heart, St. Francis (PA) and Wagner are full-time NEC members who sponsor football, and they are joined by associate members Albany and Stony Brook.

Stony Brook kicks off the 2005 season when it hosts Bucknell on September 10 at 6 p.m.