HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. — Northern Kentucky University announced it is adding four new Division 1 sports and expanding two existing ones. The NKU Board of Regents voted Wednesday to add women’s stunt, men’s and women’s swimming, men’s volleyball and men’s and women’s triathlon. The Norse athletics program will also expand its track and field and spirit programs.

“This is an exciting day to be a Norse,” said Christina Roybal, NKU athletics director. “The addition of these programs furthers our commitment to providing diverse opportunities for students and enriching the overall collegiate experience at NKU.”

Men’s and women’s swimming, men’s and women’s triathlon, women’s stunt, and expanded track and field will join the Norse lineup as varsity sports for the 2024-25 academic year. Men’s volleyball will be added as a varsity sport beginning with the 2025-26 academic year.

“This decision reflects our commitment to supporting the holistic development of our students, shaping character, instilling discipline and building lifelong skills that extend well beyond the field, pool or court,” NKU President Dr. Cady Short-Thompson shared.

NKU expects that the addition of six varsity sport programs along with the expansion of track and field and spirit programs will bring 250 new students to campus, joining the 250 student-athletes that already call NKU home.

The Board of Regents voted Wednesday to commit to the expansion of the Norse athletic programs. “This is the first move in a multi-pronged enrollment strategy,” said Board Chair Rich Boehne. “It will improve the lives of even more students and support the university financially as well. It’s a win-win.”