After two years at the Division II ranks, the program became an NAIA power, winning national championships in 1979,1981,1982,1984,1985,1986,1987, and 1989.
After two years at the Division II ranks, the program became an NAIA power, winning national championships under Eddie Griffin in 1979,1981, and 1982. James took over the program and won five more NAIA crowns in 1984,1985,1986,1987, and 1989.