University of Maryland joins Big 10

The University of Maryland joined the Big 10, bringing the number of teams in the Minnesota Gophers' athletic conference to 13.

Officials at the University of Maryland said moving from the Atlantic Coast Conference to the Big 10 Conference would bring financial stability to its athletic programs and improved academic cooperation.

At a news conference in College Park, Md., Big 10 commissioner Jim Delaney described the quick pace of the move.

"The Big 10 conference received the application of the University of Maryland to become a member. Shortly thereafter, all 12 of our presidents assembled on a conference call and quite honestly, they were giddy," Delaney said. "They were really excited. There was an unanimous vote in support. Maybe some people fear the turtle, we embrace the turtle."

The Maryland team name "Terrapins" is an Algonquin Indian word meaning turtle.

The move goes into effect in July 2014.

• Follow Sasha Aslanian on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/sashaaslanian

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.