The West Coast Conference is expanding with the additions of Grand Canyon University and Seattle University, effective July 1, 2025, the conference announced Friday.

“We are thrilled to welcome two institutions of higher education that each will make significant contributions to the future of the West Coast Conference,” said Dr. Thayne McCulloh, the chair of the WCC presidents’ council, in a statement. “While each university has a unique and distinctive character, both are deeply invested in the welfare of their students and surrounding communities, are making significant investments in their athletics programs and facilities, and will enhance the competitive profile of the West Coast Conference.”

GCU and Seattle will both compete in 14 of the WCC’s sponsored sports. WCC commissioner Stu Jackson said that the additions will help the conference get into two major cities in the western part of the United States, as the WCC aims to be nationally relevant and nationally visible.

Required reading

(Photo: Ethan Miller / Getty Images)