Division I Cabinet Approves Year-Round Men’s Soccer Season Proposal

The proposal was endorsed by the Division I Men’s Soccer Oversight Committee but failed to receive the necessary 75% approval from the Cabinet, which means it will enter a 30-day rescission period. During this time, eligible Division I schools or conferences can vote to reject the proposal. If at least two-thirds of Division I members—minimum 245 institutions—choose not to rescind the proposal by the end of the 30-day window, the new model will be implemented beginning with the 2027-28 academic year.

Earlier in June, the Cabinet had sent the proposal back to the men’s soccer committee to gather more information on its potential impact on midyear enrollees and scheduling challenges. After receiving this feedback, the Cabinet expressed satisfaction with the proposed schedule's manageability.

Supporters of the year-round season, including student-athlete representatives on the Cabinet, argue that it would enhance the development of talent and provide student-athletes with more rest and reduced weekday travel. If implemented, this schedule would also shift the notification-of-transfer window for men’s soccer to after the spring championship.

Under the proposed structure, the regular season would be spread over two semesters, retaining the current limit of 25 total games per year. Teams may schedule up to 18 games in the fall session, starting in late August and concluding before Thanksgiving, and up to 10 games in the spring session, starting in mid-February.

While the 30-day rescission period is underway, the oversight committee will collaborate with NCAA staff and broadcast partners to determine the timing of the spring championship. The Division I Women’s Soccer Oversight Committee reviewed the proposal but decided against advocating for a similar shift in women's soccer.