The Great West Conference added its seventh all-sports member when Chicago State accepted an invitation, Commissioner Ed Grom said today. The immediate addition of Chicago State gives the Great West seven members competing in all sports, along with the three football-only members.

The Great West begins competition next week with the inaugural championships in men's and women's cross country, which will take place November 1 at Utah Valley University. The Great West will also conduct championships this year in men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field and men's and women's golf.

Founded in 1867, Chicago State has a long tradition of service, having evolved over more than 140 years into a comprehensive, urban university comprised of five colleges enrolling more than 7,000 students. The Cougars sponsor 14 athletic programs, consisting of more than 200 student-athletes.

"We are very pleased to add Chicago State to the Great West Conference," Grom said. "Chicago State has been an NCAA Division I member for many years and the new leadership is moving the program in the right direction. I look forward to working with Dr. Pogue and athletic director Sudie Davis to help them reach their goals as an athletic department while at the same time, help make the Great West into a viable, vibrant conference."