NCAA considers holding joint Division I men’s, women’s soccer championships in 2011

NCAA may combo men’s, women’s soccer championships

INDIANAPOLIS — The NCAA men’s and women’s soccer championships are a step closer to becoming a single event.

Division I men’s soccer committee chair John Diffley confirmed Thursday that the Division I men’s and women’s committees are recommending a combined championship event beginning in 2012.

Diffley, a senior associate athletic director at St. John’s, said there is no firm timeline for a final decision, which will be made by the NCAA.

Diffley said combining the two events could be more economical and marketable, creating additional fan interest. Diffley acknowledged there are concerns about a joint championship, including wear and tear on fields.