DELAND, Fla. — Stetson University athletics will formally opt in to the NCAA House settlement beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, the university announced Thursday.
After continued evaluation of the evolving college athletics landscape, the university determined that participation beginning in 2026–27 best positions Stetson to support its student-athletes while maintaining alignment with its institutional mission. The decision was made based on the recommendation of Stetson's Athletics Task Force and affirmed by the Stetson University Board of Trustees.
The House settlement stems from a federal antitrust lawsuit challenging longstanding NCAA rules that limited how student-athletes could be compensated. The settlement creates national standards related to revenue sharing, scholarships and roster management, while establishing a framework that allows schools that opt in to directly provide financial benefits to student-athletes. The agreement represents one of the most significant structural changes in the history of college athletics.
Beginning in 2026–27, Stetson athletics will have the opportunity to share revenue with student-athletes. Any new scholarships or direct payments to student-athletes will come from contributions and fundraised dollars.
"Opting in to the House settlement allows us to plan responsibly for the future while continuing to be competitive at the Division I level," said Dr. Ricky Ray, Director of Athletics. "This was a thoughtful decision made with a long-term view of what is best for Stetson athletics."
Stetson President Dr. Christopher Roellke said the decision reflects the University's commitment to balancing competitive opportunities with its academic priorities.
"Our focus remains on the educational experience and well-being of all of our students, including student-athletes," Dr. Roellke said. "This approach ensures we remain consistent with Stetson's values while adapting to changes across intercollegiate athletics and to promote a sustainable and successful future."
By opting in beginning in the 2026–27 academic year, Stetson will use the additional time to prepare for implementation, ensure compliance with NCAA requirements and communicate with student-athletes, coaches and campus stakeholders.
Additional information regarding the implementation process will be announced at a later date.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
