The intercollegiate athletics program is viewed as an essential component of the university’s educational mission and is designed to provide the campus community with opportunities to participate in a wide variety of competitive activities.

Athletics Mission Statement

As an integral part of the Niagara University community, the athletics program strives to create an environment that challenges student-athletes to reach their full academic and athletics potential.

The conduct of the program reflects the core values of the university’s Vincentian mission in its emphasis on the intellectual, personal and spiritual growth of the student-athletes.

Critical character values, including a strong work ethic, leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, fairness and service are actively promoted among the student-athletes.

The program is intended to provide esprit de corps among the student body and offer a rallying point for the campus, alumni and community.

Consistent with university policy, the athletics program does not discriminate against any individual in educational or employment opportunities because of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or veteran of the Vietnam era.

Intercollegiate Athletics

Approximately 320 student-athletes participate in Niagara University’s 18-sport varsity program, which provides an excellent opportunity for the student-athletes to test their athletic abilities in challenging environments. In addition, the athletics program provides a rallying point for the campus, the local community and the alumni.

The university is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I member and is a member of the Metro Atlantic Athletic conference (MAAC) in 15 sports. The men’s hockey team competes in the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA).

Varsity sports offered for men include baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, ice hockey, soccer, swimming and diving, and tennis. The women’s program consists of basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field and volleyball. There is also the opportunity to join the cheerleaders, a group of men and women that perform at men’s and women’s basketball games, encouraging the crowd to give the Purple Eagles its full support.

All student-athletes live under the department’s Student-Athlete Code of Conduct, adhering to university principles and department behaviors and values.

Inquiries regarding scholarships and tryouts should be directed to individual head coaches. General information, including history of student-athlete graduation rates, can be obtained from the Department of Athletics.