Upper Iowa University Athletics

Upper Iowa competes in NCAA Division II, the middle tier that offers athletic scholarships while maintaining a balance between academics and athletics. The Peacocks field 15 varsity sports with 397 total athletes, meaning nearly 20% of students compete at the varsity level. The school awards $2.6 million in athletic scholarships annually across all sports. Upper Iowa belongs to the Great Lakes Valley Conference, competing against regional rivals in football, basketball, and other sports. Division II schools like UIU typically draw local crowds rather than national television audiences, creating an intimate gameday atmosphere. The Peacocks have built respectable programs over the years, though they're better known for providing opportunities for student-athletes to continue competing while earning their degrees. Football and basketball generate the most campus excitement during their respective seasons.