Ten Colleges Restart Football Teams as Enrollment Declines

Small colleges are starting or reviving football programs to attract students and address falling enrollment and financial pressures, even as some previously dropped the sport because of its costs. Ten four-year colleges launched or restarted teams this season—the most since 2013—and seven more have announced plans to do so in 2027 or later, according to the National Football Foundation. Azusa Pacific and Whittier, which ended their programs in 2020 and 2022, respectively, have returned to the field; Azusa Pacific used a $1 million private gift to cover startup costs and moved to Division III to reduce travel expenses. Azusa Pacific’s fall enrollment is 1,900, down 46% from 2020, and 49 of its 652 incoming freshmen are football players. Administrators say the large rosters can help recruitment and campus life, while Azusa Pacific also plans to add women’s flag football.