AUS and Bishop’s University football agreement will not be renewed

Atlantic University Sport (AUS) announced today that the AUS football programs and Bishop’s University have agreed that their current football participation agreement, set to expire on November 30, will not be renewed.

Over eight seasons in the AUS, the Gaiters have brought strong competition, shared values, and professionalism to the conference, making a meaningful contribution to university football in Atlantic Canada. 

The cost of interprovincial travel has risen considerably since Bishop’s joined the conference, and regular season and potential postseason trips between Quebec and Atlantic Canada now represent a substantial strain on all programs. Through open and respectful dialogue, all parties recognized that the current travel model is no longer sustainable, and the five programs are aligned in moving forward in a way that supports long-term stability.

“Postsecondary institutions in both regions are adapting to significant financial pressures,” said AUS Interim CEO John Keefe. “AUS, our football member schools in Atlantic Canada, and Bishop’s University Athletics approached this process collaboratively and with a clear understanding of the realities facing universities across the country. We have valued Bishop’s contributions to the AUS, and we continue to hold Bishop’s and its leadership in the highest regard. We wish the student-athletes and coaching staff continued success as they return to RSEQ competition.”

“We have greatly valued our time competing in the AUS,” said Matt McBrine, Director of Athletics and Recreation at Bishop’s University. “Our programs share many of the same values, and we have built strong relationships that extend beyond competition. Our student-athletes have enjoyed an outstanding experience. This transition reflects the financial realities facing universities across the country. We appreciate the collaboration throughout this process and look forward to continuing to support one another as members of the U SPORTS football community.”

AUS football will continue as a four-team league consisting of Acadia, Mount Allison, Saint Mary’s, and STFX. This transition also provides an opportunity for AUS football to explore scheduling options as a four-team, two-province conference. AUS will begin scheduling for the 2026–27 season next month.