The University of North Texas at Dallas is the newest member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). UNT Dallas begins competition for the first time this fall.

In January, UNT Dallas students voted overwhelmingly in favor of an athletics fee that will help fund men’s and women’s teams in basketball, cross country and track.

“We are thrilled to be approved as an official member of the NAIA,” UNT Dallas athletic director Jack Allday said. “This is another milestone moment as the UNT Dallas Trailblazers move even closer to competing in intercollegiate athletics.”

Four other institutions, including Texas A&M University-San Antonio, also gained NAIA membership. Other new members include: Oakland City University (Oakland City, Ind.), Park University Gilbert (Gilbert, Ariz.) and Westcliff University (Irvine, Calif.).

“The NAIA is excited to welcome these five schools into our association,” said Jim Carr, NAIA President and CEO. “Each of these institutions exemplifies the NAIA’s values and will undoubtedly make great additions to their respective conferences, as well as the organization overall.”

UNT Dallas anticipates joining the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC). Conference membership decisions will be announced later this spring.