The History of Azusa Pacific University Football
Introduction
The Azusa Pacific Cougars football program, a team that represented Azusa Pacific University, has a rich history spanning over five decades. From its inception in 1965 to its conclusion, the program experienced periods of growth, success, and ultimately, disbandment. This article explores the journey of the Azusa Pacific Cougars football team, its achievements, challenges, and the reasons behind its cessation.
Early Years and Growth (1965-1997)
The Azusa Pacific Cougars football program began in 1965. For many years, the team competed in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The program saw steady growth, attracting over 2,000 men who identified with Cougar football.
In 1985, the Okoye-led Cougars narrowly missed the NAIA playoffs, foreshadowing future success.
NAIA National Championship (1998)
A significant milestone in the program's history occurred in 1998 when the Cougars qualified for their first-ever postseason berth. They ran the table and won the NAIA national championship. This victory marked the pinnacle of the program's success in the NAIA.
Transition to NCAA Division II and Great Northwest Athletic Conference (2012)
In 2012, Azusa Pacific transitioned to NCAA Division II and became a member of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC). This move provided the team with a stable and competitive environment, new rivalries, and a consistent schedule. The team was a member of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference of NCAA Division II from 2012 to 2020.
Read also: The Story of APU's West Campus
Challenges and Fiscal Sustainability
Despite the successes on the field, the Azusa Pacific football program faced increasing challenges, particularly related to fiscal sustainability. The decline of college football in California, with 14 four-year colleges dropping football from their intercollegiate rosters since 1975, created difficulties for the program.
The decrease in in-state opponents forced APU to seek contests further afield, leading to increased travel costs. Since 2005, Cougar football averaged three airplane flights per season, and over the past four years, that average climbed to five. In 2019, all six road games required air travel, making Azusa Pacific the only NCAA Division II or III school in the nation forced to fly to all of its road games.
Between 2006 and 2009, Azusa Pacific played games in various states, including Florida, Ohio, Wisconsin, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, and Montana, in addition to its regular contests in Oregon and Washington. In 2007 alone, APU football traveled more than 17,000 miles to fulfill its 11-game schedule.
Disbandment of the Program
After significant review and careful consideration, Azusa Pacific University decided to end its intercollegiate football program. The decision was reached by the university's President's Cabinet with support from the Board of Trustees after discussions throughout the fall that included analysis on multiple fronts with key stakeholders.
The long-term trends of college football in California had eroded the fiscal sustainability of the program, causing annual departmental deficits. The strategic reallocation of funding was deemed necessary to strengthen the Athletics portfolio and overall commitment to student-athletic success.
Read also: Working at Azusa Pacific
Impact and Legacy
The decision to end the football program was met with sadness and understanding from former players and supporters. Former Cougar great Christian Okoye '87, a two-time NFL Pro Bowl running back with the Kansas City Chiefs, expressed his gratitude for the influence of the university and those who trained him.
The university is assessing how to reallocate operational and scholarship funds within the Athletics Department and across the university to promote athletic and academic excellence, while honoring the legacy of Cougar football. Current football players holding athletic scholarships who decide to finish their education at APU and achieve satisfactory academic progress will continue to receive that support.
Read also: Financial Aid at Azusa Pacific
tags: #azusa #pacific #university #football #history
