Air Force’s first communication about the latest wave of conference realignment was vague.
Not mentioning the word “conference,” but instead noting “we are aware of recent concerns about U.S. Air Force Academy Athletics,” a statement from superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony D. Bauernfeind laid out three priorities for future decisions.
The priorities outlined were:
1. “The best interests of our USAFA intercollegiate athletes and the core mission of our Academy. USAFA is home to 30 men’s and women’s teams, each of them exemplifying our mission.”
2. “The best interests of USAFA’s hard-earned reputation and brand, and the recruiting exposure garnered through athletics.”
3. “Ensuring that we are in the best possible position to generate revenue for USAFA athletics, while ensuring it makes financial sense for our Academy in the near and long terms.”
Air Force’s future has been in flux since Sept. 12, when Boise State. Colorado State, Fresno State and San Diego State announced they were leaving the Mountain West to join the Pac-12 (which as of now consists only of Oregon State and Washington State).
The American Athletic Conference reached out to the Falcons the following day.
As of now, it appears the Falcons could wind up in the AAC, the Pac-12 or stay in the Mountain West.
“Air Force might just be the belle of the realignment ball these days,” the Sports Business Journal said, later adding, “Regardless of how this lands, expect Air Force to be an important domino in the latest Group of Five realignment wave.”
