BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — History is on the horizon for the Gulf South Conference. Virginia State University has accepted an invitation to join the league as an affiliate member in women's lacrosse, beginning with the 2026 season.
Located in Petersburg, Va., just 30 minutes south of Richmond, Virginia State will become the first historically Black college or university (HBCU) to compete in the Gulf South Conference. As part of its affiliation, the institution will gain full access to the GSC Women's Lacrosse Championship and conference awards. The Trojans will remain a full member of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) for all other sports.
"We are thrilled to welcome Virginia State and its women's lacrosse program to the GSC," said GSC Commissioner Matt Wilson. "The addition of Virginia State is a mutually beneficial relationship that strengthens the conference and reflects our commitment to women's lacrosse. We are excited to partner with one of the nation's newest programs that will bring fresh energy to the league. I appreciate the work from our membership and the Virginia State staff and administrators to get this done so quickly."
"Virginia State University is proud to join the Gulf South Conference as an affiliate member, becoming the league's first HBCU," said Tiffani-Dawn B. Sykes, Associate Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. "This partnership represents a tremendous opportunity for our women's lacrosse student-athletes to compete for championships, earn academic and athletic recognition, and tell the Trojan story on a new stage. It also aligns directly with VSU's strategic priorities while enhancing the overall experience of our student-athletes. We are grateful to Commissioner Matt Wilson and the GSC Board of Directors for welcoming us into a conference that has built a strong tradition of excellence."
Virginia State's women's lacrosse program is one of the newest in NCAA Division II, debuting in 2024 under head coach Ashley Lawrence while competing as an independent for its first two seasons.
"Today marks a powerful step forward, not just for our athletic department, but for the women's lacrosse program," said Head Coach Ashley Lawrence. "As we enter our third season and join the Gulf South Conference, we continue to build on the history we've already made. As an HBCU, we are proud to expand opportunities for our student-athletes and honor the diversity and excellence that define our legacy. This is more than a game—it's part of a bigger movement, and we're proud to lead it."
The Trojans' inaugural conference slate will feature home games against Lee and Flagler, along with road matchups at Alabama Huntsville, Montevallo, and Lander.
The Gulf South Conference began sponsoring women's lacrosse in 2016. Since then, GSC programs have earned national rankings, NCAA postseason berths, and multiple All-American honors. Student-athletes have also competed in the prestigious IWLCA Senior All-Star Game.
