The **Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC)** is a collegiate athletic conference competing in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Established in 1985 following the dissolution of the Missouri Valley Conference's football division, the MVFC has become one of the most prominent FCS conferences, known for its competitive programs and national championship success[1][3][5].

## History  
The MVFC originated from the **Gateway Collegiate Athletic Conference**, a women's sports league founded in 1982. After the Missouri Valley Conference discontinued football in 1985, remaining FCS members Illinois State and Southern Illinois joined former Association of Mid-Continent Universities members—including Eastern Illinois, Northern Iowa, Southwest Missouri State (now Missouri State), and Western Illinois—to form a football conference under the Gateway's administrative structure[3][4]. Indiana State joined in 1986, and the conference rebranded as the **Missouri Valley Football Conference** in 2008 to reflect its geographic identity[3][5].

## Membership and Structure  
The MVFC operates independently from the Missouri Valley Conference, though several member institutions participate in both leagues for other sports. Historical members include Western Kentucky (2002–2006 FCS championship participant) and South Dakota State, which joined in 2008. The conference has maintained stability under Commissioner Patty Viverito, its sole leader since inception[1][3][5].

## Championships and Achievements  
The MVFC holds the FCS record for consecutive national championship game appearances (14 as of 2024), with member teams winning nine titles since 1997[1][5]. Notable championships include:  
- **North Dakota State**: Five consecutive titles (2011–2015) and three more (2017–2019, 2021, 2024)  
- **South Dakota State**: Back-to-back championships (2022–2023)  
- **Youngstown State**: 1997 title (prior to MVFC rebranding)  
The conference has produced numerous NFL players, All-Americans, and award winners, including multiple Walter Payton Award recipients[1][3].

## Legacy  
Recognized as the premier FCS conference, the MVFC celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2025 by honoring an all-time team through fan voting, reflecting its sustained excellence[1]. Member schools have appeared in 20 FCS championship games since 1997, winning 14[1][5].