Texas A&M has told the Big 12 Conference it plans to leave the league by July 2012 if it is accepted by another conference.
“After much thought and consideration, and pursuant to the action of the (Texas A&M University System) Board of Regents authorizing me to take action related to Texas A&M University’s athletic conference alignment, I have determined it is in the best interest of Texas A&M to make application to join another athletic conference,” President R. Bowen Loftin wrote to Big 12 Commissioner Dan Beebe in the letter dated August 31, 2011.
The move, which has been expected for months, may set off another round of conference realignment in college sports. The Aggies have made it clear since voicing their desire to move that they want to join the 12-member Southeastern Conference.
Texas A&M has been a member of the Big 12 since the conference’s founding 16 years ago. Last season, the Aggies claimed nine Big 12 championships and four national team titles, both of which were school-bests. Since joining the Big 12 prior to the 1996-97 athletic season, Texas A&M has won 55 conference championships, including 32 in the last five years.
School spokesman Jason Cook posted via Twitter that Texas A&M wouldn’t host a press conference regarding the statement.
“As I have indicated throughout this process, we are seeking to generate greater visibility nationwide for Texas A&M and our championship-caliber student-athletes, as well as secure the necessary and stable financial resources to support our athletic and academic programs,” Loftin said. “This is a 100-year decision that we have addressed carefully and methodically. Texas A&M is an extraordinary institution, and we look forward to what the future may hold for Aggies worldwide.”
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