ECAC Unveils New Championship Structure for 2016-17
DANBURY, Conn. - The Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) has unveiled a new structure for its Division III team championships to be implemented for 2016-17.
The new structure will see one champion crowned in each team sport, replacing the multiple regional championships previously held. Under the new format, teams will compete in regionalized* first rounds with the winner of each region advancing to a final round at the highest remaining seed.
"Having one true champion in all team sports will help create a true 'championship' environment for the student-athletes," said Lori Mazza, associate vice president for championships, leagues & affiliates. "The ECAC feels this new structure will better serve our Division III members by providing highly competitive postseason opportunities."
In an effort to offset the costs to conference members, the ECAC will provide financial assistance to both the host and traveling institutions competing in the final round. Additionally, the regionalized* first round will help minimize missed class time for student-athletes.
Sample brackets detailing the ECAC's new championship structure may be found at the links below. Please note all dates are subject to change.
DIII Baseball
DIII Men's Basketball
DIII Women's Basketball
DIII Field Hockey
DIII Men's Lacrosse
DIII Women's Lacrosse
DIII Men's Soccer
DIII Women's Soccer
DIII Softball
DIII Men's Tennis
DIII Women's Tennis
DIII Men's Volleyball
DIII Women's Volleyball
*The ECAC and the selection committee may pair first round opponents outside of regions to reduce travel cost.
ABOUT THE ECAC
In the 76 years since its inception, the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) has emerged as the nation's largest Conference. The ECAC has grown considerably from its charter membership of 58, boasting over 300 member schools in Divisions I, II and III, ranging in location from Maine to Georgia, and westerly to Missouri. In the 2015-16 academic year, the ECAC will host nearly 100 championships in 32 men's and women's sports as the sponsors of over 5,800 varsity teams and 111,000 male and female Players. For more information, visit
www.ecacsports.com.
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