In 1939, Central Michigan University joined the Mid-American Conference (MAC), which was established in 1946 as a collegiate athletic conference for universities located in the Midwestern United States. Central Michigan became one of the charter members of the MAC, along with seven other universities.

Central Michigan’s membership in the MAC has allowed the university’s athletic programs to compete at the highest level of collegiate athletics in the region. Over the years, Central Michigan has enjoyed success in a number of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, track and field, and wrestling.

The MAC has also provided Central Michigan with the opportunity to develop rivalries with other regional universities, such as Western Michigan and Eastern Michigan. These rivalries have become an important part of the university’s athletic culture and have helped to build strong fan support for the Chippewas.

Today, Central Michigan remains a proud member of the MAC and continues to compete at the highest level of collegiate athletics in the region. The university’s athletic programs are known for their tradition of excellence and continue to attract talented student-athletes from across the country.