In preparing to launch football this fall, the New South Athletic Conference has voted to accept Clayton State University of Morrow, Georgia, and Gordon State College of Barnesville, Georgia as affiliate members. Both schools will compete as football-only members beginning in the fall of 2025.

“We are deeply honored to accept membership to the New South Athletic Conference, said Clayton State football coach Kevin Adkins, whose team played in the National Club Football Association (NCFA) championship in November. “This is an important step to growing Clayton State football throughout the Southeast region and on a national level. It is truly a privilege to be part of such a prestigious conference that is growing steadily. I am particularly looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with others who are passionate about giving Clayton State football a platform to compete at a high level while encouraging our student athletes to graduate. Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity. I am confident that NSAC will be a fruitful forum for advancing our student athletes and fostering new collaborations.”

“We are happy to be a part of this new and upcoming conference,” added Gordon State coach Omar Quisenberry. “This move will change the narrative towards Gordon State College football in an awesome way. We thank Commissioner Mike Davis for reaching out to us and extending the invitation to us to be a part of the NSAC. Now, LET’S PLAY SOME FOOTBALL!!!”

In 2024, the Highlanders finished second to the Clayton State Lakers in the NCFA South Atlantic Conference.

“Clayton State and Gordon State bring traditions of excellence and professionalism to the table,” said Davis. “They represent what the New South is seeking to uphold in college athletics: integrity, respect, sportsmanship, and honor. We’re excited to have the Lakers and Highlanders as part of the NSAC Family.”

CSU and GSU join six full-time NSAC members for the conference’s first season on the gridiron: The Apprentice School (Newport News, Virginia); Atlantis University (Miami, Florida); John Melvin Christian College (Pace, Florida); Lighthouse Christian College (Milton, Florida); South Carolina Central Christian College (Cayce, South Carolina); and Westgate Christian University (Houston, Texas).