Indianapolis, IN (Sports Network) - Butler University will leave the Horizon League and will join the Atlantic 10 Conference, effective for the 2012-13 season.

Earlier this month, it was announced the Bulldogs would join the A-10 officially on July 1, 2013, but an accelerated timetable was made possible by both leagues.

"We are grateful to the Atlantic 10 for welcoming us into the fold a year ahead of schedule," Butler athletic director Barry Collier said. "Since announcing our intention to depart after 2012-13, Butler and the Horizon League have discussed the terms for next season. Ultimately, it was in our best interest to reach an agreement with the Horizon League for immediate departure."

The Atlantic 10 will compete as a 16-team league in 2012-13. In addition to Butler, the league includes first-year member VCU, Charlotte, Dayton, Duquesne, Fordham, George Washington, La Salle, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Richmond, St. Bonaventure, Saint Joseph's, Saint Louis, Temple and Xavier.

The Atlantic 10 had been looking for a replacement for Temple, which is leaving to join the Big East. The Owls, who were also part of the Mid-American Conference in football, will play football in the Big East next year while joining the league in all other sports in 2013-14.

05/29 17:12:29 ET