New York Institute of Technology has been accepted into the Collegiate Sprint Football League (CSFL), effective July 1, 2027, marking the university’s return to competitive sports.
Sprint football, first introduced in 1934, follows traditional NCAA football rules while requiring student-athletes to compete under a designated weight limit of 183 pounds. “Sprint football provides students with the opportunity to compete at a high level; be part of a team; and develop the discipline, leadership, resilience, and camaraderie that come from collegiate sports,” says Joseph Posillico, Ed.D., vice president for enrollment management and strategic communications. “We are proud to bring these opportunities to our students and look forward to building a strong and competitive program within the CSFL.”
Posillico is leading the effort at New York Tech to reintroduce competitive sports at the university after they were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. “This is an exciting milestone for New York Tech Bears sports and an important opportunity for our students to continue playing the game they love while pursuing a world-class education,” he adds.
In its acceptance letter to New York Tech, the CSFL shared that its visitation team was impressed by the university’s vision for sprint football and the planning that has taken place. It also noted that the level of commitment expressed by the university staff is excellent, and the League believes that future student-athletes will have exceptional experiences as New York Tech Bears.
“The CSFL is excited to be part of the rebirth of competitive sports on the New York Tech campus,” Commissioner Dan Mara says. “The school has an outstanding academic program and a long history of intercollegiate athletic success. Philosophically, the university aligns strongly with the CSFL members. The current administration has crafted an innovative plan to launch sprint football and is committed to its success.
“New York Tech is the third new member added to the conference since 2024. The growth confirms the benefits of adding sprint football to a campus and strengthens the league for years to come, Mara continues.
“I extend my sincere thanks to Commissioner Mara and the entire CSFL leadership for their partnership and confidence in New York Tech,” Posillico adds. “Having had the privilege of helping to bring another institution into the league nearly a decade ago, I have seen firsthand the tremendous impact sprint football can have on a campus community and on the lives of student-athletes.”
New York Tech will conduct a search for a sprint football coach who will also be responsible for growing the university’s burgeoning intramural and club sports programs. Today, club sports include co-ed badminton and men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball, with plans to add lacrosse and soccer teams in the near future.