Virginia State University Athletics

Virginia State competes in NCAA Division II, which offers athletic scholarships but maintains a balance between competition and academics. The Trojans field 15 varsity sports with 290 total athletes, meaning about 6% of the 4,787-student body participates in varsity athletics. The university distributes nearly $2 million in athletic scholarships annually. Virginia State competes in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, a historically black conference featuring intense rivalries. The Trojans have a particularly heated rivalry with Norfolk State University. The school has produced notable athletic talent, including Olympic gold medalist boxer Pernell Whitaker. With a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, student-athletes receive personalized attention both in the classroom and on the field. Division II athletics at VSU emphasize competitive excellence while prioritizing academic achievement and graduation.