The Big West Conference Board of Directors has voted to retain the University of Hawai‘i men’s volleyball, beach volleyball, women’s water polo, and men’s swimming and diving programs as affiliate members starting with the 2026-27 seasons.
The decision follows Hawai‘i’s full-time move to the Mountain West in 2026. While the Mountain West has hosted UH football since 2012 and will bring on nearly all other programs, it does not sponsor the programs that will remain in the Big West.
“We’re pleased to continue a longstanding relationship with the University of Hawai‘i that dates back to 1984,” Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly said in a statement. “By welcoming these programs as affiliate members, we not only bolster the overall strength and prestige of The Big West but also provide our student-athletes with enhanced opportunities to compete at a national level in their respective sports.”
The Big West Board of Directors, comprised of university presidents and chancellors, voted to retain Hawai‘i as an affiliate member.
Brian McInnis of Spectrum News broke the news prior to the announcement being made.
Since 2012, the Big West has served as the home for nearly all of Hawai‘i’s athletic programs outside of football. Before joining the Big West, UH was a full-time member of the Western Athletic Conference.
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