AUGUSTA, GA -- The Peach Belt Conference will welcome Central State University as an associate member for indoor track & field, starting with the 2024 championship. Located in Wilberforce, Ohio, Central State will be the sixth indoor track and field program in the Peach Belt.
"Central State will be a tremendous addition to our indoor track & field championship," said PBC commissioner David Brunk. "Their long and storied history of track & field success will be a great asset to us as we begin to write our own championship history this season. I am grateful to interim president Dr. Alex Johnson, athletic director Kevicia Brown and head coach Elliott Lightfoot for choosing the Peach Belt as their home for indoor track & field."
The PBC will begin men's and women's indoor track & field this season as the 17th and 18th conference championships. The inaugural event will be held on Feb. 18, 2024, at the Alachua County Sports & Events Center in Gainesville, Fla.
"We are thrilled and ecstatic to announce that Central State University is joining the prestigious Peach Belt Conference for indoor track and field!" said athletic director Kevicia Brown. "This is an extraordinary opportunity for our athletes, coaches, and the entire university community. Being a part of such a competitive and esteemed conference will elevate our program to new heights and open doors to incredible experiences. We cannot wait to showcase our talents, dedication, and spirit alongside the best teams in the region. Together, we will leave our mark on the Peach Belt Conference and make our university proud! Go, Central State! Go, Marauders!"
With a history dating back to 1887, Central State is the nation's oldest private Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Central State began offering four-year degrees in 1941 and founded Marauder Athletics in 1961. Granted Land-Grant status by the federal government in 2014, Central State athletics joined the SIAC in 2013 after moving to NCAA Division II.
Central State will join Clayton State University, Flagler College, Lander University, the University of South Carolina Beaufort and associate member Embry-Riddle University at the first championship.