Saint Francis University in Latrobe has officially become part of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference, announced during the league's Media Day. Head coach Chris Villarrial and senior defensive back Campbell Melzer represented the team as the school adjusts from Division I to Division III football.
Villarrial is entering his 17th season with the Red Wolves in 2026 and acknowledged the challenges of the transition. Still, he remained optimistic about the future. He highlighted the program’s past success in developing talent, including EJ Jenkins, a Super Bowl winner with the Eagles, and Elijah Surratt, who is now in training camp with the Ravens. Villarrial also mentioned his previous coaching achievements, including leading the Red Wolves to Northeast Conference titles in 2016 and 2022, and his desire to keep building the team’s legacy.
Campbell Melzer, a senior defensive back, is one of the experienced players who have committed to staying with Saint Francis through the transition. He thanked his coaches and teammates for their support in his decision. 'I trust my coaches, I trust my teammates,' he said. 'We want to finish what we started.' Melzer is expected to play a major leadership role as the program adjusts to a new level of competition.
For the 2026 season, Saint Francis will compete in an eight-game schedule, all against other PAC teams. However, these games will not count in the conference standings during the transition period. This temporary arrangement will remain in place until the reclassification process is complete.
Villarrial acknowledged the higher level of competition the Red Wolves will face in the PAC. He praised the talent level across the conference and the chance to form new rivalries. The conference’s strong football traditions make the challenge more exciting for the Red Wolves.
John Onderko, the PAC Commissioner, welcomed Saint Francis as the 12th school in the conference, setting a new record for the largest membership in PAC history.
As the school moves from Division I to Division III, the Red Wolves will play eight games in 2026, all against PAC opponents. These games will not count toward the standings during the reclassification process. Fans can follow Saint Francis football throughout the season via the PAC Digital Network. * - Not eligible for the PAC Championship due to the Division I transition.