1.23.2012
“This is an incredibly exciting event for all of us here at Longwood, and leads seamlessly into what we have been waiting for: league affiliation – Big South, here we come! We have successfully navigated the stages involved with making the transition to the Division I level, been able to weave our way through and jump over the inherent obstacles such a move presents, and worked our way to the point of competitiveness and relative success. All of this has been done with boundless energy, unwavering commitment, burgeoning pride in being a Lancer, and a degree of resolve that says great things are right around the next corner. As all of this occurs, I know two things for sure: the Big South is going to be great for Longwood, and Longwood is going to be great for the Big South!”
… Longwood Men’s Basketball Head Coach Mike Gillian
“Big South Conference membership is the best thing to happen at Longwood since coeducation and university status. Our student body, alumni and all other institutional and community constituencies can now join together to saddle up and gallop boldly toward a more glorious horizon. Hold on tight, because this will surely be an exhilarating ride. We look forward to competing in this top-flight baseball league as we work hard to gradually establish ourselves as contenders. I am particularly happy for the excitement that all of our baseball men of yesteryear, who toughed out the long years of waiting, must feel on this grand day.”
… Longwood Baseball Head Coach Charles Buddy Bolding
“For all of the student-athletes and coaches, past and present, who have worked so hard to put Longwood University on the Division I map, this will be a terrific reward. Moving forward, membership in the Big South Conference will open up many recruiting avenues that have not been available in the past. The future is bright for Longwood Athletics.”
… Longwood Women’s Basketball Head Coach Bill Reinson
“I am especially excited for our students, alumni, community and student-athletes because they have waited patiently for the right opportunity regarding conference affiliation. We are looking forward to being a successful and positive member of the Big South; our thanks to all of the institutional presidents who saw the tremendous potential of Longwood University. Developing conference rivalries in softball is going to be fun and full of memories for all!”
… Longwood Softball Head Coach Kathy Riley
“Obviously, we’ve waited a long time for this day, so to have finally secured membership in the Big South Conference is a major relief. Knowing that none of us will have to answer the ‘where-and-when’ question any longer, especially in the recruiting process, is an amazing feeling. I feel badly for our recent graduates and current seniors, but I’m thrilled for our returning and future student-athletes. To have the chance to play for a conference championship and, when successful, to be rewarded by advancing to NCAA tournament play is priceless. Because of that opportunity alone, we should now be able to win some of the recruiting battles we’ve lost in the past. The Big South is a strong men’s golf league, and I look forward to preparing our team for the challenge of competing in it.”
… Longwood Men’s Golf Head Coach Kevin Fillman
“We've been eagerly anticipating this moment ever since we made the very first announcement that we were moving to Division I. On that note, my very first thought is overwhelming gratitude to all of the student-athletes who competed as a DI 'Independent' during these past nine years and built a foundation of success that made this conference affiliation a possibility and then a reality. With that said, we are now honored to be a member of the Big South and look forward to continuing some competitive rivalries we've established these past few years. But now we get to play for CHAMPIONSHIPS.”
… Longwood Women’s Soccer Head Coach Todd Dyer ‘93
"Congratulations Longwood University on your invitation to be the newest member of the Big South Conference. Not only has the Big South made a wise selection involving sports but also in the selection of a prestigious University they can be proud of for many years to come. Longwood has always committed itself not only to get the best athletes but also to get top students. I am very proud to carry the torch for Longwood wherever I go. I wish them the greatest success in the new conference, and I will be watching whenever I can. GO LANCERS!"
… Former Longwood All-American & 17-Year NBA Veteran Jerome Kersey '84
