OLLU to Launch Football Program in Fall 2027
Our Lady of the Lake University's board of trustees approved a football program that will compete in the NAIA's Sooner Conference.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Football
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Our Lady of the Lake University's board of trustees approved a football program that will begin play in fall 2027 and compete in the NAIA's Sooner Conference. The university plans to recruit 100 student-athletes for its inaugural team, and football will become OLLU's 22nd athletic team.
Why it matters
The university said the program supports its broader enrollment goals by attracting students who want to continue playing football while pursuing a college degree. The move comes as enrollment has fallen sharply, with the school reporting 1,550 students this fall.
Enrollment stands at 1,550 students, down nearly 12% from last year and 44% from fall 2020, while about 25% of enrolled students currently take part in athletics. The university has not yet disclosed the coaching staff, schedule or home field for the program.
The players
Our Lady of the Lake University
A private university in San Antonio, Texas, that is launching the football program and competing in the NAIA's Sooner Conference.
The details
The board of trustees approved the program, and the university will spend the 2026-27 academic year establishing a coaching staff, recruiting players and preparing for the first season. Earlier this school year, OLLU introduced women's flag football, and the football team will become the university's 22nd athletic team.
Timeline
Fall 2020: Baseline enrollment used for the 44% decline figure.
October: Brent Fields became interim president.
Dec. 31: Abel Chávez's resignation takes effect.
2026-27 academic year: Coaching staff established and players recruited.
Fall 2027: Inaugural football season begins.
Sports Landscape
The launch follows a pattern among small NAIA private colleges that have added football to attract students while enrollment at many such schools has stagnated or fallen. Football programs are often used as a recruiting tool for institutions seeking to expand their student body and athletic offerings.
Prospective players in South Texas will have a new NAIA option for continuing their football careers while pursuing a degree. Fans and local recruits should watch for announcements on the coaching staff, schedule and home field as plans are finalized.
The takeaway
Small colleges are increasingly turning to athletics to rebuild enrollment, so new programs like this one are worth watching for their effect on student numbers. Prospective students weighing athletics should confirm roster openings and scholarship details directly with the program once they are announced.
Further reading
For more on college football programs in the area, see Football coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Texas Public Radio.
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