CEDAR CITY, Utah — As Southern Utah University prepares for its official return to the Big Sky Conference in July of 2026, Thunderbird Athletics is proud to announce the launch of a new feature series celebrating SUU's rich history within the league.
The series will revisit Southern Utah's time in the Big Sky Conference, highlighting conference championship teams, memorable moments, notable alums, and rivalries that will soon be renewed as the Thunderbirds rejoin one of the nation's premier collegiate conferences. Designed as both a reflection and a celebration, the project gives voice to the deep-rooted connection between SUU and the Big Sky while building excitement for the program's next chapter.
"This series is about honoring where we've been as we prepare for where we're going," said Interim Director of Athletics Tom Higbee. "Southern Utah's identity has long been intertwined with the Big Sky Conference, and this is an opportunity to share those stories with longtime supporters while introducing a new generation of Thunderbirds fans to our history."
Beginning in January, the series is planned to feature at least one in-depth article per month leading up to July 1, 2026, when Southern Utah officially rejoins the conference. Additional features, interviews, and archival content may be added as the SUU Sports Information team continues to uncover and celebrate moments from the university's Big Sky legacy.
Look for the first article to become available next week as we take a look at one of the most successful football seasons in the Thunderbirds' history.
Beyond reliving past successes, the series serves as a reminder of the respect and admiration Southern Utah holds for the Big Sky Conference and its member institutions. The Thunderbirds return with a sense of pride, tradition, and excitement to once again compete alongside programs that helped shape the university's athletic history.
Fans can follow the series throughout the year on suutbirds.com in the "Back to the Big Sky" tab under the Fan Zone Section. Look for regular posts on our Southern Utah Athletics' social media platforms as the countdown to the Thunderbirds' return to the Big Sky officially begins.
About the Big Sky Conference
Founded in 1963, the Big Sky Conference is an NCAA Division I conference, competing in the Football Championship Subdivision. The Big Sky prides itself on its "#ExperienceElevated" platform that emphasizes the unique traits and lifelong benefits that the conference and its member institutions provide to around 3,300 student-athletes each year. Conference members have won 13 NCAA championships, including seven in football by five different members, as well as six of the last nine Division I men's cross country titles by NAU.
About SUU Athletics
Southern Utah University Athletics is home to 15 NCAA Division I teams. SUU Athletics supports the University's educational mission by fostering leadership, personal growth, and academic excellence. Committed to integrity and community engagement, we prepare student-athletes for success both on and off the field. SUU Athletics is more than competition - it's a transformative part of the Thunderbird experience.
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