GRAND FORKS, N.D.- The University of North Dakota made it official today announcing that it is joining the Summit League starting in the 2018 school year. In addition, North Dakota football will be a member of the Missouri Valley Football Conference beginning in 2020. 
Western Illinois is a member institution of both conferences.
Geographically it makes sense for the Fighting Hawks since neighboring programs North Dakota State, South Dakota and South Dakota State are already in both conferences. The University of North Dakota is pleased with the move in multiple facets according to today’s earlier press conference.
“This is an important day for UND Athletics and the University as we announce new athletic conference affiliations,” University of North Dakota Director of Athletics Brian Faison said. “Both the Summit League and the Missouri Valley Football Conference are great fits for North Dakota geographically and competitively. Our fans are going to enjoy having past rivalries renewed, now in a league setting. And, both conferences will have a positive financial impact on the athletics department.”
North Dakota is leaving the Big Sky Conference after being a member since 2012.
