Bethune-Cookman University Athletics

Bethune-Cookman competes in NCAA Division I, meaning serious athletics with full scholarships and regional TV coverage. The Wildcats participate in the Southwestern Athletic Conference alongside other historically black universities. With 340 athletes out of 2,414 students, about 14% of the campus plays varsity sports. The university awards $2.98 million in athletic scholarships across 14 sports programs. Football drives much of the school spirit, particularly during the annual rivalry game against Florida A&M University. The Marching Wildcats band, which performs at football games, has gained national recognition and often overshadows the athletic programs themselves. Basketball and baseball also maintain competitive programs within the SWAC. The athletic culture provides students with Division I excitement while maintaining the intimate feel of a smaller campus community.