TEXARKANA, Texas. (KTAL/KMSS) – Texas A&M University Texarkana (TAMUT) is another step closer to bringing college football to the city.

“This development is going to be fantastic for both our university and our local community. Seeing this project evolve from the ground up to what we envision will be incredible,” remarks Ryan Wall, the athletic director at TAMUT.

During a press conference on Thursday, it was announced that the university has secured a new place in Division II by joining the Lone Star Conference. This move marks their transition from the NAIA Division, just in time for their football team’s debut season in 2027.

“There is a probation phase, and we’re aiming to follow the accelerated path, which takes 2 years. Once that’s completed, we will be a fully recognized Division II program within the Lone Star Conference, spanning locations from Laredo to Eastern New Mexico to Texarkana,” states Wall.

Additionally, they announced a collaboration with Red River Credit Union for the naming rights of the upcoming Eagles’ football stadium. The stadium is still in the early stages of planning, projected to hold 6,000 spectators, and is intended to be ready for the new team by 2028.

“This will enable us to actively involve the community, attract skilled students and athletes, and serve as a platform for the wider Texarkana area,” says TAMUT President Ross Alexander.

Also playing games at the stadium will be a women’s flag football team.

“We’re starting a lot of different sports. So the buzz around here, along with everything else, is on a high level,” says Wall.

The university will also be partnering with Red River Credit Union on an upcoming center for financial literacy.