New Rochelle, NY -- (Sports Network) - Iona College has announced that it is terminating its football program, effective immediately, on Thursday.

"It is with a heavy heart and careful deliberations that we have come to this extremely difficult decision," said director of athletics Patrick Lyons. "The dissolution of the MAAC Football League after the 2007 season and the lack of equitable opponents in Division I FCS football was the main factor in the decision."

Iona was a founding member of the MAAC Football League in 1993 and played in the conference until it was disbanded after the 2007 season.

The Gaels posted a record of 59-94 over the 15 seasons and won the MAAC championship in 1993 and 2007.