PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — West Virginia University has been accepted into the Big 12 and will begin competing in the conference in the 2012-2013 athletic season.

According to the press release, the Big 12 Conference Board of Directors voted unanimously to accept WVU. Earlier this month, Texas Christian University also joined the Big 12.

In a statement, WVU President Dr. James P. Clements said: “The Big 12 is a perfect fit for West Virginia University. It is a strong conference that, like WVU, values quality academic and athletic programs and has a great tradition of success. This is a very exciting time for WVU and Mountaineer nation. I am confident that the future of WVU athletics has never been more promising.”

West Virginia University sponsors 17 varsity sports. The Mountaineer football program has been ranked in the top 25 of the final BCS Standings five of the last six seasons.

Big 12 Interim Commissioner Chuck Neinas said in a statement: “We are excited to add West Virginia to our exceptional lineup of Conference members. They bring an excellent overall athletic program to the Big 12 and allow the league to expand into an area that boasts a passionate group of fans and alumni throughout its region.”

In addition to WVU and TCU, the 2012-2013 season for the Big 12 is expected to consist of Baylor, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas and Texas Tech.

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