Wheeling University Athletics

Wheeling competes in NCAA Division II, which offers athletic scholarships while maintaining a balance between academics and athletics. The Cardinals field 20 varsity sports and award $3.5 million in athletic scholarships annually. With 457 student-athletes on a campus of 567 students, an impressive 80.6% of the student body participates in varsity athletics. The Cardinals compete in the Mountain East Conference against regional rivals. Division II athletics creates a strong campus sports culture where games draw solid crowds but academics remain the priority. The high percentage of student-athletes reflects Wheeling's commitment to providing athletic opportunities across numerous sports rather than focusing on a few marquee programs. This approach allows the small Catholic university to offer competitive athletics while maintaining its academic mission.