Hope International University Athletics

Hope International competes in NAIA Division I, which sits between the high-profile NCAA Division I and the participation-focused Division III levels. The Royals field 16 varsity sports with 338 total athletes, meaning about 62% of the student body participates in varsity athletics. This creates an unusually sports-heavy campus culture for a school of 549 students. The university invests in athletics, awarding over $6 million in athletic scholarships annually. As a Christian institution founded in 1928, Hope International emphasizes character development through competition. The high percentage of student-athletes reflects the school's commitment to integrating faith and athletics. While not known for powerhouse programs, the Royals compete in the Golden State Athletic Conference against other small Christian colleges throughout California.