Boise State University has accepted an invitation to join the Mountain West Conference and become its 10th member institution, joining such schools as the U.S. Air Force Academy, BYU, TCU and the University of Utah. The move is effective next summer, on July 1, 2011. The invitation to move from the Western Athletic Conference, or WAC, to the Mountain West, according to BSU President Bob Kustra, "reflects the excellence that Boise State University has demonstrated academically and athletically." He said, "This move is in the best interests of Boise State’s future, and the university is excited to be part of one of the nation’s most outstanding conferences.” Click below for the full announcement from BSU.

RESPONSE FROM BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY ON INVITATION TO JOIN MOUNTAIN WEST CONFERENCE

Boise State University today has accepted the invitation to join the Mountain West Conference and become its 10th member institution, effective July 1, 2011.

Boise State joins the United States Air Force Academy, Brigham Young University, Colorado State University, University of New Mexico, San Diego State University, Texas Christian University, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, University of Utah and University of Wyoming.

Boise State is the second institution to join the Mountain West; TCU became a member in 2005. The Mountain West Conference began with eight members in 1998. Boise State’s previous conference affiliations included the Big Sky from 1970-1996, Big West from 1996-2001 and the Western Athletic Conference from 2001-current.

Mountain West Conference Commissioner Craig Thompson:
“We are pleased and excited to welcome Boise State University to the Mountain West Conference. Since our inception just 11 short years ago, the Mountain West has experienced tremendous success, and the addition of Boise State will further enhance that strength. The MWC continues to strategize regarding potential membership scenarios and bringing Boise State into the Conference is an important part of that evolution.”

Boise State President Bob Kustra:
“The invitation to join the Mountain West Conference reflects the excellence that Boise State University has demonstrated academically and athletically. It will be a privilege to compete and partner with such a successful group of member institutions. This move is in the best interests of Boise State’s future, and the university is excited to be part of one of the nation’s most outstanding conferences.”

Boise State Director of Athletics Gene Bleymaier:
“Membership in the Mountain West Conference is a milestone moment for the entire Bronco sports program. The new alignment will help our student-athletes by minimizing distant travel and developing more intermountain competition. The Western Athletic Conference has been an integral part of our growth and success. We will always be proud of our affiliation with those schools and thankful for the opportunities.”