Athletics Overview
Mount Union competes in NCAA Division III, where sports focus on personal development rather than athletic scholarships. With 823 athletes out of 1,785 total students, nearly half the campus participates in varsity athletics across 21 sports. The Purple Raiders dominate the Ohio Athletic Conference and have built one of college football's greatest dynasties. Their football program has won multiple national championships and consistently ranks among Division III's top programs. The team's success stems from legendary coaching, including notable alumni Don Nehlen and Larry Kehres who both achieved national recognition. Students pack the stands for football games, creating an electric atmosphere despite the Division III setting. Baldwin Wallace University serves as their primary rival, making for intense conference matchups that draw passionate crowds from both schools.
Athletics Details
Source: EADA / U.S. Department of Education
- Athletic Association
- NCAA Division III
- Conference
- Ohio Athletic Conference
- Team Nickname
- Purple Raiders
- Varsity Sports
- 21
- Student-Athletes
- 823
- Athletic Scholarships
- N/A — NCAA Division III does not offer athletic scholarships
Sports
Men's (11)
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Football
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
Women's (10)
- Basketball
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)
- Volleyball
- Wrestling