It is the mission of intercollegiate athletics at Murray State University to offer a high quality and competitive NCAA Division I athletics program that advances' learning, fosters personal growth, develops leadership skills, and positively contributes to the culture, spirit and quality of campus life. Murray State holds that athletic participation is a privilege which exists to enhance Murray State's collegiate purpose, identity and goals while providing quality educational opportunities through sports competition. Maintaining the highest standards of athletic performance, academic achievement, sportsmanlike conduct and community service serve as core values in the quest to lead model programs where gender equity and diversity are fundamental components of the decision making process. Winning on the field of play and in the classroom is paramount, without one pursuit being renounced for the accomplishment of the other.Athletics strives for excellence in all areas of the competitive environment in accordance with the philosophy, rules, and regulations of NCAA Division I and the Ohio Valley Conference.