Cleveland State University Athletics: A Legacy of Viking Pride
The Cleveland State Vikings, affectionately known as the Vikes, represent Cleveland State University in intercollegiate athletics. Formerly known as the Fenn College Foxes, the university's athletic programs have a rich history, evolving from the NCAA College Division to the current NCAA Division I status achieved in 1972. Cleveland State's athletic affiliations include the Horizon League (since 1994), the Mid-American Conference for wrestling (since 2019), and, most recently, the Northeast Conference for men's lacrosse (starting in 2024). The university previously held membership in the Mid-Continent Conference (1982-1994) and the North Star Conference (1989-1992).
A Comprehensive Athletic Program
Cleveland State has offered a diverse range of sports programs throughout its history. While baseball, men's cross country, and men's and women's track and field are no longer fielded, they were once integral parts of the university's athletic offerings. During its time as Fenn College, the institution also sponsored men's ice hockey and rifle teams. In addition to varsity sports, Cleveland State maintains a selection of club sports, providing opportunities for student participation across various athletic interests.
The McCafferty Trophy: Recognizing Athletic Excellence
The Horizon League's McCafferty Trophy serves as a testament to overall athletic performance across all sponsored sports. Cleveland State has proudly claimed this award twice, in 2008 and 2013, highlighting the university's commitment to excellence in athletics.
Updates and Developments in Specific Sports
The following sections provide updates on specific sports programs at Cleveland State University, reflecting recent events and newly available information.
Baseball: A Storied Past
Baseball held a prominent place in Cleveland State's athletic history for 69 seasons. However, on May 2, 2011, the university announced the discontinuation of the baseball program.
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Esports: Embracing the Future of Competition
Cleveland State University has made a significant stride in the realm of esports with the inauguration of a new Esports Lab in Fenn Hall on September 24, 2024. This state-of-the-art facility, located within the Washkewicz College of Engineering, marks a major advancement for the university's esports program, which previously operated off-campus at the Cavs Legion Lair.
The creation of the dedicated lab was a collaborative effort, with significant contributions from Dr. Susan Carver and Dr. Richard Schoephoerster. Their support, along with efforts from the FAST and IS&T staff, ensured the lab was ready for use by student-athletes in August.
PJ Farrell, Director of Esports, expressed enthusiasm for the new space, emphasizing its role in strengthening the program and creating opportunities for growth. The lab also supports CSU's involvement in major esports events, such as high school playoffs and collegiate tournaments.
Football: A Feasibility Study
The possibility of adding a football program at Cleveland State University has been a topic of discussion. On October 14, 2008, then-university President Michael Schwartz expressed his desire for a blue-ribbon panel to provide recommendations on the feasibility of a football team before his retirement on July 1. He emphasized that the program would need to be self-sustaining.
On November 19, 2008, the committee members chosen by President Schwartz to explore the feasibility of football at Cleveland State were revealed. The university completed its feasibility study on October 9, 2009.
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From April 12-14, 2010, the Cleveland State Student Government Association conducted an online poll to gauge student support for a football team. The proposed fee would cover the operating costs of the team, including staff salaries, equipment, travel, insurance, and medical care.
Men's Lacrosse: Joining the Northeast Conference
Cleveland State University added men's lacrosse as a varsity sport. CSU competed as an independent for its first five men's lacrosse seasons. In a significant move, Cleveland State joined the Northeast Conference (NEC) for men's lacrosse starting in the 2024-25 season. This affiliation promises to enhance the program's competitiveness and visibility.
Tennis: A Discontinued Program
Cleveland State dropped tennis as a sport following the 1991-1992 school year.
Women's Track & Field
Women's Track & Field ceased to exist after the 199? season.
Viking Crew: A Successful Club Sport
Viking Crew is a successful coed club crew. Each year the team travels around the nation to compete against other top collegiate crew. In 2006 the team's lightweight men's four traveled to Boston to race in the Head of the Charles Regatta. In 2007 and 2009 the team raced at Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta with over 37 boats in their race.
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tags: #cleveland #state #university #lacrosse #history
