Paving the Way for New Opportunities in Collegiate Athletics
An NCAA Emerging Sport for Women is a women's sport recognized by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that is intended to help institutions provide more athletics opportunities for women. These sports are positioned to potentially achieve full NCAA championship status, fostering growth and increasing participation for female student-athletes across all divisions.
5,000+
Participation Opportunities Created Annually
25+
Years of Program Success
For a sport to be recognized as an NCAA Emerging Sport for Women, its national governing body must meet specific criteria and follow a structured application process. This ensures the sport's viability and potential for sustained growth within collegiate athletics.
Must be an intercollegiate activity with standardized rules and a recognized governing body.
Demonstrate at least 20 NCAA institutions sponsor the sport (varsity or competitive club) with robust opportunities.
Secure commitment letters from 10+ NCAA institutions intending to sponsor the sport at the varsity level.
Submit a comprehensive application with detailed data on costs, safety, participation, and diversity.
Once designated an Emerging Sport, the journey continues towards becoming a full NCAA Championship sport. This phase requires significant growth and institutional buy-in, culminating in a vote by the NCAA divisions.
The sport must reach 40 NCAA institutions sponsoring it at the varsity level.
The Committee on Women's Athletics (CWA) recommends the sport for championship consideration.
Each NCAA division votes on whether to add the sport as a championship.
If approved, the NCAA establishes a championship, typically taking 2+ years for logistics.
Since its inception, the Emerging Sports for Women program has successfully transitioned several sports to full NCAA Championship status, demonstrating a commitment to expanding opportunities for female student-athletes.
Sports that successfully navigate the Emerging Sports pathway typically share common characteristics and strategies.
Strong National Governing Body (NGB) leadership and advocacy.
Demonstrated and growing institutional commitment from colleges/universities.
Comprehensive data on participation, costs, and safety.
Alignment with NCAA's strategic goals and commitment to gender equity.
Clear pathway for youth and high school participation leading to collegiate play.