Iona joined the long line of MAAC football programs streaming for the door, as the Gaels, one of a handful of Division I schools permitted to play Division III football in the 1980s and early 1990s, announced it was dropping the sport effective immediately.

Six MAAC football members dropped the sport in the previous six years: Canisius, Fairfield, La Salle, St. Peter's, Siena and St. John's, prompting the league to disband after the 2007 season. Iona played two Division III schools this past season, going 1-1.

"It is with a heavy heart and careful deliberations that we have come to this extremely difficult decision," said athletic director Patrick Lyons. "The dissolution of the MAAC Football League after the 2007 season and the lack of equitable opponents in Division I FCS football was the main factor in the decision."

"A comprehensive system has been put in place to support all football student-athletes in this difficult transition," said school president Br. James Liguori. "Assistance will be provided to all that elect to continue their athletic career at another institution or their academic careers at Iona College."