The Newport, R.I., school will become the conference’s 12th core member and will begin participation in the 2023-24 school year.

Westwood, Mass. ― Salve Regina University of Newport, R.I., will join the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference during the 2023-24 academic and athletic calendar year, it was announced on Wednesday.

Salve will leave the Commonwealth Coast Conference following the 2022-23 season and become the 12th core member of a conference which includes Coast Guard Academy.

"As the chair of the NEWMAC Expansion Task Force, it has been an honor and a privilege working with the exceptional members of our conference as we looked across the landscape of higher education to identify the best institution to join us in pursuit of our goals'' said Rear Admiral William Kelly, Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, in a release. "Salve Regina University is the perfect fit for the NEWMAC and their commitment to the student-athlete experience is inspiring. We look forward to having them join us and I am confident their addition to the conference will ensure the strength and stability of the NEWMAC during a period of significant change in college athletics."

Salve Regina will participate in 16 of the NEWMAC's 20 sports.

"The NEWMAC institutions are known not only for their academic excellence but their commitment to the support of the whole student and the creation of inclusive educational environments," Salve Regina president Kelli J. Armstrong said. "Salve Regina is truly honored to be a member of this prestigious and progressive athletic conference."

The Seahawks will field varsity teams in baseball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, field hockey, football, men's and women's lacrosse, men's and women's soccer, softball, men's and women's tennis, women's track and field and volleyball.

"Becoming a member of the NEWMAC is a wonderful opportunity for our student-athletes and staff to grow and succeed regionally and nationally," Salve athletic director Jody Mooradian said. "While we have had great success in our current conference and enjoy the relationships we have there, we look forward to collaborating with a new set of administrators, coaches and student athletes."