US college schools have overturned a plan to spread Division I men’s soccer across two semesters from 2027–28. A two-thirds majority rescinded the rule during a 30-day review period. The championship season will stay in the fall, after supporters’ calls for more recovery time met concerns over staffing, costs and facilities.
US college schools have rejected a proposal to divide the Division I men’s soccer season between the fall and spring semesters. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) confirmed on Friday that the required two-thirds majority of member schools had rescinded the rule change. The championship season will therefore remain in the fall, rather than moving the title competition into the spring.[1], [2]
The sport’s oversight committee adopted the proposal in May for implementation in the 2027–28 academic year. In October it received less than 75% support in the Division I Cabinet, triggering a 30-day rescission period. Under that procedure, 241 of the 361 Division I schools could block the change. The NCAA said the necessary number had been reached by Friday’s deadline.[1]
Supporters argued that spreading matches across two semesters would reduce midweek games, missed classes and the pressure of a compressed schedule, while allowing more recovery between matches. Opposing athletic departments cited staffing, facility and financial constraints. The current championship season fits into a 10-to-13-week fall window, ending with the College Cup in December. The vote keeps that calendar in place.[1]
