Athletics Overview
Northern Michigan competes in NCAA Division II, which offers athletic scholarships but operates below the big-budget spectacle of Division I programs. The Wildcats field 20 varsity sports with 457 total athletes, meaning about 7% of the 6,425 students compete at the varsity level. The university awards $4.8 million in athletic scholarships across all sports. Northern Michigan belongs to the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and maintains a heated rivalry with nearby Michigan Tech. The school has produced notable coaching talent, including NFL coach Steve Mariucci and Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo. The Upper Peninsula location creates passionate fan support for winter sports, particularly hockey, where the harsh climate and outdoor culture translate into strong programs that reflect the region's sporting identity.
Athletics Details
Source: EADA / U.S. Department of Education
- Athletic Association
- NCAA Division II
- Conference
- Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
- Team Nickname
- Wildcats
- Varsity Sports
- 20
- Student-Athletes
- 457
- Athletic Scholarships
- $4,837,823
Sports
Men's (8)
- Basketball
- Football
- Golf
- Ice Hockey
- Other Sports
- Skiing
- Soccer
- Swimming and Diving (combined)
Women's (12)
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Other Sports
- Skiing
- Soccer
- Swimming and Diving (combined)
- Track and Field (Indoor)
- Track and Field (Outdoor)
- Volleyball
- Wrestling