Batesville, Ark. – Lyon College is ready to step into a new chapter in its athletic program. Starting September 1, the college will officially join the NCAA as a Division III member, transitioning from the NAIA. This move comes as Lyon joins the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) and signals a fresh wave of excitement and pride among students and staff.
“It gives them more opportunity to succeed,” said Luke Beeser, a sophomore at Lyon College. He expressed optimism that being part of the NCAA will boost morale and encourage athletes and students alike.
The journey towards NCAA membership has been a long one. It began in 2021 when Athletic Director Kevin Jenkins proposed the idea to President Dr. Melissa Taverner. Jenkins mentioned that the decision came at a crucial time, as the college was experiencing significant academic growth, and he wanted to extend that momentum to the athletic program. “It was kinda a daunting task,” he remarked, reflecting on the extensive paperwork and requirements needed to make this transition.
To gain NCAA membership, Lyon College had to meet various criteria and undergo a thorough evaluation spanning several years. This assessment looked at factors such as program size, the number of sports offered, and the capability to provide athletic scholarships. In late June 2025, Jenkins received the good news from the NCAA, stating, “We got a phone call… and it was definitely one of those things—kinda took a deep breath and said, ‘Ah, we made it.’”
To ensure a smooth transition, Lyon has brought in James McIntyre as the assistant athletic director. With past experience at major Division I programs like the University of Memphis and Alabama, his goal is to advance Lyon’s athletic department. “As coaches and recruiting go, it’s just grinding it out,” McIntyre said, emphasizing the need to promote the college and its athletics.
Lyon College has also made significant improvements to its athletic facilities to get ready for NCAA competition. One of the highlights is the brand-new football stadium, which is expected to enhance the game-day atmosphere. Currently, the football team has been playing at Batesville High School, but they are set to kick off their season at home against Arkansas Baptist College on September 6 in their new stadium.
This significant change marks an exciting time for Lyon College, as it brings fresh opportunities not only for the athletes but also for the entire campus community.
