The Western Athletic Conference (WAC) is a collegiate athletic conference that has been a part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) since 1962. With a rich history of competition and a diverse range of member institutions, the WAC has consistently produced top-notch teams and surprising moments that captivate fans across the United States. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of WAC athletics, highlighting the top teams, surprising moments, and what makes this conference so exciting.
The WAC is comprised of 13 member institutions, including California Baptist University, Chicago State University, Grand Canyon University, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, among others. These institutions are spread across the western United States, with a strong presence in the southwestern region. The conference competes in 17 sports, including basketball, baseball, soccer, and volleyball, providing a wide range of opportunities for student-athletes to excel.
Top Teams in the WAC
When it comes to the top teams in the WAC, there are several institutions that consistently stand out. The New Mexico State University Aggies, for example, have a long history of success in basketball, with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and a strong record in conference play. The Grand Canyon University Antelopes are another team to watch, with a dominant program in baseball and a growing presence in other sports.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros are also a force to be reckoned with, particularly in soccer and volleyball. With a strong recruiting class and a experienced coaching staff, the Vaqueros are always a contender for the conference championship. The California Baptist University Lancers are another team on the rise, with a growing program in basketball and a strong record in track and field.
Surprising Moments in WAC History
One of the most surprising moments in WAC history came in 2019, when the New Mexico State University Aggies men’s basketball team won the conference tournament championship, despite being seeded fifth in the tournament. The Aggies’ run to the championship was marked by several upset victories, including a thrilling win over the top-seeded Grand Canyon University Antelopes in the semifinals.
Another surprising moment came in 2017, when the University of Missouri-Kansas City Roos women's soccer team won the conference championship, despite being seeded sixth in the tournament. The Roos' run to the championship was marked by several dominant performances, including a 4-0 win over the top-seeded Utah Valley University Wolverines in the finals.
| Team | Conference Championships | NCAA Tournament Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| New Mexico State University Aggies | 10 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University Antelopes | 5 | 10 |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros | 3 | 5 |
| California Baptist University Lancers | 2 | 3 |
Key Points
- The WAC is a collegiate athletic conference with 13 member institutions and a strong presence in the southwestern United States.
- The conference competes in 17 sports, including basketball, baseball, soccer, and volleyball.
- The New Mexico State University Aggies, Grand Canyon University Antelopes, and University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros are among the top teams in the WAC.
- The WAC has a history of surprising moments, including upset victories and dominant performances by underdog teams.
- The conference is on the rise, with a growing presence in the NCAA and a strong reputation for producing talented student-athletes.
In conclusion, the Western Athletic Conference is a collegiate athletic conference that is full of excitement and surprises. With its top teams, including the New Mexico State University Aggies, Grand Canyon University Antelopes, and University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros, and its history of surprising moments, the WAC is a conference that fans won't want to miss. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or just looking for some exciting competition, the WAC has something for everyone.
What is the Western Athletic Conference?
+The Western Athletic Conference (WAC) is a collegiate athletic conference that is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The conference is comprised of 13 member institutions and competes in 17 sports.
Which teams are part of the WAC?
+The WAC is comprised of 13 member institutions, including California Baptist University, Chicago State University, Grand Canyon University, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, among others.
What sports does the WAC compete in?
+The WAC competes in 17 sports, including basketball, baseball, soccer, and volleyball.
As the WAC continues to grow and evolve, it’s an exciting time for fans of collegiate athletics. With its rich history, competitive teams, and surprising moments, the WAC is a conference that is sure to captivate audiences for years to come. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the WAC, there’s never been a better time to get on board and experience the excitement of WAC athletics.
