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The Niobrara Valley Conference may expand its membership.

Ainsworth approached NVC schools, sending a formal request to join. Summerland’s board of education discussed the application during its Sept. 14 meeting.

Superintendent Dale Martin said 75% of member schools would need to cast an affirmative vote for the measure to be approved.

In the request, Ainsworth superintendent Dale Hafer and co-activities directors Jared Hansmeyer and Scott Steinhauser, wrote that while the school has enjoyed being part of the Southwest Conference, dwindling enrollment numbers have them seeking other options.

“We understand that concerns with us joining will center on our size and western geography.”

Clearwater site principal Mike Sanne said Ainsworth is closer for Summerland than current NVC member Keya Paha.

“It’s 97 miles to Ainsworth and 105 to Springview.”

Ainsworth officials touted the school’s facilities, noting in the last dozen years, upgrades have occurred at the football facility, track and field surfaces, locker rooms and performance auditorium.

Ainsworth is obligated to the Southwest Conference for the 2020/21 school year and would not join the NVC, if approved, until the 2021/22 year.

Martin said currently there are 13 schools in the NVC.

Nate Schwager said he wasn’t in favor of the addition at first, but has “changed his tune” after studying the membership school numbers.

“We are going to need some extra games. Can you get JV? Can you get C team games? Some you won’t be able to,” Martin added.

Marty Kerkman said Ainsworth is a similar size to Summerland.

“It’s an easy 97 miles,” he added.

Martin said it is possible Ainsworth may be a site for hosting conference activities in the future.

A board vote for approval was unanimous.