The number 3 story on my list of top stories of 2021 is the decision by the College of the Ozarks to end its affiliation with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.
In March the school announced that its long standing membership within the NAIA was coming to and end and that the school would be competing in the National Christian College Athletic Association. The school had held dual memberships with the organizations.
As a former athlete at the school and one that competed in the NAIA, when it was at its height, before big defections to NCAA Division II, I was sad to hear the news. Honestly, it came as no surprise. If you were paying attention you saw it coming, maybe not as soon as it did, but it was coming.
The loss of the tournament a few years ago was the first indication. But, once the guys were withdrawn from last years NAIA Championships after qualifying and being placed on the bracket, it was just a matter of time. The women were allowed to compete, but soon learned the fate of their program as well.
There is certainly nothing wrong with the NCCAA and I am happy that athletics will continue at the school. Its just a different ballgame, and I will miss the competition the NAIA provided me and my fellow alums.
