The Lake Superior State University Athletic Department announced the addition of an NCAA Division II men’s swimming and diving team. The recommendation to add this program to the list of varsity sports was approved by the Board of Trustees. LSSU joins Barry University, Rockhurst University and Kutztown University in the list of institutions starting or reinstating an NCAA Division II program this year.

Lake Superior State is targeting a start date of fall 2023 to begin competition. The Laker’s team will join an already established conference championship in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Currently, five member schools and two affiliates compete in the GLIAC conference (Augustana, St. Cloud State, Davenport, Grand Valley State, Northern Michigan, Saginaw Valley State, Wayne State). 

The school's announcement was met with enthusiasm within the swimming community. “I am excited that the Board of Trustees approved the addition of swimming and diving to the Laker’s athletic department. This program will undoubtedly attract strong student-athletes to LSSU’s campus. The team will provide opportunities for swimmers and divers in the state of Michigan, an area filled with talented swimming at the high school and club level.” explained CSCAA Executive Director Samantha Barany

"We are happy to have played a small part in this decision. The CSCAA was able to illustrate the value in adding a swimming and diving program through a thoughtful proposal and the leaders at Lake Superior took it from there. We would like to congratulate Athletic Director, Dr. Dave Diles and President, Dr. Rodney S. Hanley and extend our support as they move forward with the the LSSU swimming and diving program.

The lakers will join the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) along with Augustana, St. Cloud State, Davenport, Grand Valley State, Northern Michigan, Saginaw Valley State and Wayne State. Notably, four of the eight teams did not sponsor swimming a decade ago. That follows a trend that has seen the sport add over 100 teams in recent years.

“On behalf of the GLIAC membership, I congratulate the LSSU administration for adding new varsity sports,” said GLIAC Commissioner, Kris Dunbar. “Swimming and diving has a rich and successful history in the GLIAC and the Upper Peninsula, and it’s a great fit for LSSU. I have no doubt these teams will be embraced by the campus community, and area swimming and diving fans. I look forward to seeing them compete in the GLIAC.”

Women's Triathlon has also been approved by the Lake Superior Board of Trustees, bringing LSSU to a total of 15 varsity teams.