WASHINGTON, D.C. – Men’s volleyball officially became a varsity sport at Gallaudet University as announced by the athletics department. The transition from a club sport to varsity gives the Bison athletic program 15 varsity teams entering the 2012-13 season. Emma Racila remains the team’s head coach for the upcoming season. The team will begin its new season in January 2013.

“I was impressed with Coach Racila and her players last season as they played at the club level. This move gives Gallaudet students more opportunities to play a NCAA sport while in college,” said Director of Athletics Michael Weinstock. “We hope the Gallaudet community will come out and show their support for our newest athletic program this year.”

The Bison men’s volleyball team is now one of six programs in the North Eastern Athletic Conference (NEAC) competing this 2013 season. Gallaudet joins Keuka College, Lancaster Bible College, SUNYIT, Morrisville State College and Wells College at the varsity level in the NEAC.