Trojan News

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) recently launched a new Web site for the new NAIA Eligibility Center. To access the site visit www.PlayNAIA.org. The NAIA Eligibility Center is responsible for determining the eligibility of first-time NAIA student-athletes and began taking registrations September 1, 2010 for any student interested in playing NAIA sports at any NAIA institution - including Trevecca Nazarene University- for the first-time in 2011-12 or after.

"NAIA colleges and universities award $450 million in financial aid to 60,000 student-athletes every year," said John Leavens, NAIA senior vice president for membership services. "Our institutions offer great opportunities to students interested in getting a college education with that small-college personal touch, and a chance to continue their athletic careers with a shot at one of our 23 national championships. We're excited to be able to get the word out to our nation's high school athletes about the opportunities that exist to play NAIA."

Beginning in September 2010 prospective students can visit www.PlayNAIA.org and explore the world of NAIA college sports. Students will have the opportunity to find out more about NAIA schools with a free search feature, including where NAIA colleges and universities are located, which NAIA schools sponsor specific sports, visit college websites and check out photo galleries and links to NAIA championships.

At www.PlayNAIA.org prospective students will also be able to build a customized profile based on their sport and designate the type of schools, academic programs and activities of interest. Once a custom profile is complete, a student will have the opportunity to forward the profile and make a personal connection with college coaches and admissions officers.

Every student seeking to compete in NAIA sports for the first-time in 2011-12 or after must be registered with the NAIA Eligibility Center. Academic requirements for high school students in the NAIA have not changed. The only difference is that initial eligibility will first be determined through the NAIA Eligibility Center.

The new site, www.PlayNAIA.org, is also a destination for member institutions, parents, high school guidance counselors and coaches. The site features numerous resources and includes a list of frequently asked questions, scholarship information, details about the eligibility center process, fees and much more.

With the launch of the new NAIA Eligibility Center the association is in a better position to establish accountability in determining the eligibility of student-athletes and ensure fair competition among individuals with similar athletic experiences. The center will be housed at the NAIA national office headquartered in Kansas City, Mo.

Trevecca has been a member of the NAIA since 1968.