The Villanova Wildcats capture headlines with a surprise move and Pope Leo XIV donning their cap.
Villanova’s Move To A New Conference Blessed By Their Most Famous Alumni?
Over the last 48 hours, the Villanova Wildcats have been the focus of surprising moments, beginning with arguably their most famous alumni donning their hats on a visit. Pope Leo XIV met with members of the National Italian American Foundation during their visit to the Vatican on Wednesday (June 4).
At the outset, they presented his eminence with a white hat bearing the school’s “V” logo. Pope Leo immediately grinned and took off his zuccheto to put it on. The press captured the moment on hand.
Pope Leo XIV briefly took off his zucchetto and replaced it with the hat of his alma mater, Villanova University, on Wednesday, as he met with members of the National Italian American Foundation at the Vatican. The group had given the pontiff the hat during the visit. pic.twitter.com/JQRjtQ1Wnn
— CBS News (@CBSNews) June 5, 2025
Born Robert Francis Prevost, the recently ordained 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church graduated from the Philadelphia-based university with a Bachelor’s in Science in Mathematics in 1977. The pope is also an avid Chicago White Sox fan.
The next surprise came on Thursday (June 5), when news broke that Villanova’s football program would leave the Coastal Athletic Association after this season and join the Patriot League for the 2026 season.
According to ESPN, the move brings them back in contention with former rivals William & Mary and Richmond. It will put them in a conference readying itself to have a full 10-team schedule with an automatic bid for the NCAA DI FCS Championship.
KEEP READING: From Villanova to the Vatican: New Pope Robert Prevost Has College Ties
“We are excited to join a conference where the member institutions share similar values, both athletically and academically,” Villanova coach Mark Ferrante said in a statement. “The geographic alignment makes sense for our program and our student-athletes, and we believe this move will foster strong regional rivalries while maintaining our commitment to excellence on and off the field. It’s a natural fit that positions us well for the future.”
The Pope’s blessing could mean more blessings for Villanova football, which is coming their way in the 2026 season.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
