College athletics the way it was meant to be
The world of college sports has undergone a seismic shift in the past decade, with changes that often stray from the values that once defined it. The NAIA champions the authentic spirit of college athletics, allowing student-athletes to compete in sports they are passionate about, while also emphasizing academics, character development, and community involvement.
The Right Way to Play is a national campaign from the NAIA designed to amplify the distinct value of the NAIA, solidifying the association as The Right Way to Play, weaving its story through the lens of NAIA membership. It’s more than a message. It’s a movement that celebrates the NAIA’s shared commitment to competition, character, and community.
Balancing growth of the whole person with athletic achievement is just one aspect that the NAIA will promote with the campaign. Common-sense regulations, innovative tools for building successful athletics programs, and character-driven competition are other aspects that embody the NAIA model.
This is our playbook for the future—and it's built by the people who live it every day.
About the NAIA
The NAIA is a governing body of small athletics programs that are dedicated to character-driven intercollegiate athletics. NAIA members provide more than 83,000 student-athletes with opportunities to play college sports, earn $1.3 billion in financial aid, and compete in 29 national championships.
What Makes This the Right Way to Play?
The NAIA champions college athletics that builds better people—not just better players.
Here’s how:
Growth of the whole person
Academic success. Athletic excellence. Character and leadership. We’re developing student-athletes who are ready for life, not just the next game.
Smaller College Strong
Smaller doesn’t mean limited — it means limitless possibilities. By providing tailored resources and opportunities, we empower our members to compete at the highest level with the strongest institutions in the nation.
Community Through Competition
We believe in rivalries with respect, and championships that create connection. Our athletes and institutions don’t just compete—they rise together.
High-Performing Athletics
We equip members with innovative tools and common-sense regulations to fuel success on and off the field. Excellence isn’t accidental—it’s empowered.
This campaign is built to be shared and shaped by our members. In this unique time in collegiate athletics, every member school, every coach, every student-athlete has a story that proves NAIA is truly The Right Way to Play. We can’t wait to see those stories come to life.
Dr. Amy Novak
St. Ambrose University president and chair of the NAIA Council of Presidents
The NAIA gave me the space to grow—on the court, in class, and as a leader.
Jasmine Lee
Volleyball Student-Athlete
Oklahoma City University
It’s not just about wins here. It’s about how you play—and who you become.
Coach Brian Morales
Men’s Soccer
Bethel College
I’ve never felt more seen or supported as an athlete and a student.
Isaac Turner
Track & Field
Indiana Tech
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Stay Connected
This is just the beginning. Keep an eye out for new stories, videos, and ways to get involved.
For media inquiries or to collaborate, email bcalmer@naia.org.
