RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The Big West Conference today announced a partnership with the Pac-12 Conference for men's soccer. This partnership is designed to strengthen and sustain Division I men's soccer opportunities across the western United States.

"This partnership represents what can happen when conferences work together with purpose," said Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly on the collaboration. "Our shared goal has been clear — protect opportunities for student-athletes, preserve Division I men's soccer in the West, and ensure our institutions continue to have meaningful access to NCAA championship pathways.
UC Riverside, California Baptist, Cal Poly, and UC San Diego will compete as affiliate members in Pac-12 beginning with the 2026–27 season. In addition, the Pac-12 and Big West will implement a scheduling collaboration featuring crossover matches between member institutions of both conferences.

Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould echoed Commissioner Butterly's sentiments.

"By working together, our conferences are ensuring stability for men's soccer programs across the region and maintaining strong competitive opportunities and postseason access for our student-athletes."

Under head coach Tim Cupello's guidance UC Riverside won The Big West regular season titles in 2014 and 2022. Then the Highlanders won The Big West Conference Tournament in 2018 and 2022 which resulted in NCAA Tournament berths.

"We are excited about the future of UC Riverside Men's Soccer and honored to be selected as a new member of the Pac 12 Conference," remarked coach Cupello. "During our time in The Big West, we have earned success with multiple team championships, while developing players to advance their careers into top professional leagues and World Cup selections."

"We look forward to the opportunity to evolve in the Pac 12 and are excited for our campus community to experience our brand on a new stage"

Be sure to stay connected to GoHighlanders.com for more updates as they become available.