Saint Francis University Adds Men’s Swimming as First New Sport in Division III Era
“This announcement is more than the addition of a sport—it’s a symbol of forward progress,” added Jim Brazill, Director of Athletics. “Men’s swimming embodies our vision for a vibrant, student-centered Division III experience where athletic opportunity, academic focus, and community connection thrive together.”
As Saint Francis University begins its exciting transition to NCAA Division III, the Athletics Department is proud to announce the addition of men’s swimming as its 23rd intercollegiate athletics program, launching in the 2026–27 season. It will be the first new team introduced during SFU’s transition to Division III—symbolizing a commitment to growth, competitive excellence, and student opportunity.
The University’s leadership sees this addition as a reflection of its mission and long-term priorities. “Our transition to Division III and the introduction of men’s swimming reflects a deeper commitment to the values that have shaped Saint Francis for generations. As a Catholic, Franciscan institution, we see athletics as an extension of our mission—to form people of compassion, excellence, and service. This new addition is a step forward towards that future,” said Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D., President, Saint Francis University.
The addition of men’s swimming positions Saint Francis as a strong new contender within the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC), which currently features seven other institutions sponsoring the sport: Allegheny, Bethany, Chatham, Grove City, Saint Vincent, Westminster, and Washington & Jefferson. It also aligns SFU with a national trend—Division III boasts more men’s swimming programs than any other NCAA division, with over 200 universities competing across 38 conferences.
Head Coach, Phil Hurley
The program will be led by Head Coach Phil Hurley, who will serve as head coach for both the men’s and women’s teams beginning in 2026–27. Hurley will enter his seventh year coaching Red Flash women’s swimming in 2025–26, coming off the program’s best finish under his leadership—a third-place result at the Northeast Conference Championships, the team’s highest conference placement since 2018–19.
“Our women’s program has built a culture of discipline, heart, and respect for the sport,” said Hurley. “I’m excited to extend that same foundation to our future men’s swimmers and grow a program that reflects our Franciscan values and competitive spirit.”
The university will also launch a search for a full-time assistant coach to support both programs and ensure a strong foundation for success in and out of the pool. All home meets will be held at Stokes Natatorium inside the Maurice Stokes Athletic Center, providing a championship-caliber facility for student-athletes and fans.
PAC Commissioner Joe Onderko
"We are thrilled that Saint Francis will add men's swimming as their 23rd varsity sport when the Red Flash joins the PAC," said PAC Commissioner Joe Onderko. "Coming off a year in which two PAC men's programs had All-Americans shows the quality of swimming in the conference.
"Adding Saint Francis, who already fields a very competitive women's program, will only enhance the level of swimming in the PAC for both the women and men and provide more opportunities for Red Flash student-athletes."
This announcement reflects Saint Francis University’s broader vision as it transitions to Division III: a sustainable model of athletics that prioritizes academic success, values-driven competition, and community engagement. With strong academics, new program growth, and a revitalized athletic identity, Saint Francis is laying the foundation for a thriving future—one that will carry Saint Francis University forward for the next 175 years and beyond.
“This is the first step in a new chapter—one that keeps students at the heart of everything we do,” added Brazill. “We’re excited for what’s ahead.”