California State University-San Marcos Athletics

The Cougars compete in NCAA Division II, which offers athletic scholarships but without the massive stadiums and TV contracts of Division I programs. With 273 athletes across 11 varsity sports, roughly 1.9% of the 14,174 students participate in varsity athletics. The athletic department distributes $880,899 in scholarships among these student-athletes. CSUSM plays in the California Collegiate Athletic Association alongside other Cal State schools like Chico State and Sonoma State. As one of the newer universities in the Cal State system, having opened in 1989, the Cougars are still building their athletic traditions. Division II athletics at CSUSM emphasize the balance between competitive sports and academic achievement, providing opportunities for serious athletes who want to compete at a high level while maintaining focus on their education.