A History of Baseball at Biola University
Biola University is a private, nondenominational, evangelical Christian university located in La Mirada, California. Founded in 1908 as the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, Biola has evolved into a comprehensive university with a wide range of academic programs and a vibrant athletic program. This article explores the history of baseball at Biola University, tracing its development and highlighting key moments and figures.
Early Beginnings and the Evolution of Biola University
The institution that would become Biola University was founded on February 25, 1908, as the Bible Institute of Los Angeles. The founders were Lyman Stewart, president of the Union Oil Company of California; Thomas C. Horton, a Presbyterian minister and author; and Augustus B. The institute aimed to provide training in the Bible and missions, distinguishing itself from the broader approach of Christian liberal arts colleges. The early curriculum was a two-year diploma program modeled after the Moody Bible Institute.
In 1912, R. A. Torrey was appointed as dean, and in 1913, construction began on a building at the corner of Sixth and Hope St. in downtown Los Angeles. This building featured a 3,500-seat auditorium, a carillon of 11 bells that played hymns three times daily, and the iconic "Jesus Saves" signs that would become a landmark.
Over time, there were attempts to broaden the curriculum. In 1949, the institution became Biola College, and in 1981, it adopted the name Biola University. This expansion included the addition of multiple schools and graduate programs, such as the Talbot Theological Seminary, Rosemead Graduate School of Professional Psychology, Crowell School of Business, School of Education, and School of Intercultural Studies.
Biola Athletics: The Eagles Take Flight
Biola University's athletic teams are known as the Eagles. The university is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II, primarily competing in the Pacific West Conference (PacWest) since the 2017-18 academic year. Before joining the NCAA, Biola was a member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), competing as an independent in the West Region of Division I.
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The athletics program at Biola includes 18 varsity sports. In 2012, Biola inducted three alumni into its Inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame: Todd Worrell (baseball), Becky White (volleyball and women's basketball), and Wade Kirchmeyer (men's basketball).
Todd Worrell: A Baseball Legend
Todd Worrell's induction into Biola's Athletics Hall of Fame underscores his significant contributions to the university's baseball program. While specific details about his career at Biola are not provided in the given text, his recognition alongside other accomplished athletes highlights his impact on Biola's baseball history.
NCAA Division II Membership
On July 20, 2016, Biola University's application for membership into the NCAA Division II was approved, initiating a three-year membership process. During Provisional Year Two (2017-18), Biola joined the PacWest Conference and began competing primarily against NCAA opponents.
Other Notable Aspects of Biola University
Beyond athletics, Biola University is known for its conferences, centers, and academic programs. The university hosts annual events such as the Missions Conference and the Torrey Memorial Bible Conference. It also became a notable venue for early intelligent design conferences.
Biola supports several academic centers, including the Center for Christian Thought and the Center for Christianity, Culture and the Arts. The Crowell School of Business offers undergraduate and graduate programs, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Masters in Professional Accountancy (MPAcc). The School of Education, established in 2007, offers programs for educators and administrators.
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