Stetson University Athletics: A Legacy of Champions
Stetson University's Athletics Program boasts a rich history, deeply intertwined with the institution's identity and values. From its humble beginnings in 1894 to its current status as an NCAA Division I competitor, Stetson has cultivated a tradition of athletic excellence, academic achievement, and community engagement. The athletic teams are called "Hatters," reflecting the university's association with John B. Stetson, maker of the well-known Stetson hats. This unique nickname, born from the university's connection to the renowned hat manufacturer John B. Stetson, encapsulates the spirit and tradition of Stetson athletics.
The Genesis of a Name: John B. Stetson and the Hatters
The story of Stetson University's athletic identity begins with Henry DeLand, who founded the DeLand Academy in 1883. Three years later, a disastrous freeze severely impacted the citrus industry, leaving DeLand in financial straits. John B. Stetson, who maintained a winter residence in DeLand, stepped in to support the school. In 1889, at DeLand's request, Stetson became chairman of the Board of Trustees, and the university was renamed in his honor. The unlikely combination of a famous hat manufacturer and a university produced a novel nickname for Stetson University.
The moniker "Hatters" not only pays homage to the university's benefactor but also embodies the spirit of resilience, determination, and distinctiveness that defines Stetson athletics.
Colors and Symbols: Defining the Hatter Identity
The official Stetson colors are a rich dark green (PMS 343) and white, representing the trees and orange blossoms prevalent in the Central Florida area. White represents purity, and green, significant growth. At the first commencement in 1893, the stage was decorated in green and white. These colors also were used first at the beginning of intercollegiate athletics in Florida.
Over the past 60 years, Stetson University’s Hatter mascot has undergone various transformations - from a 10-gallon hat with big eyes and curled eyelashes to a leprechaun-looking Mad Hatter. In spring 2011, Stetson launched a Mascot Challenge to revitalize the Hatters' image. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, student organizations, and university departments were invited to submit ideas and drawings. The public was given the opportunity to vote on the 70 creative submissions. On Jan. 20, 2012, John B. was unveiled as the new Hatter mascot, embodying the university's spirit and pride.
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Early Years: Pioneering Firsts in Florida Athletics
Stetson University's athletic program holds the distinction of achieving several significant milestones in Florida's intercollegiate sports history. From the moment Stetson students first gathered to play an intramural football game in 1894, athletics has been rooted in the history of Stetson University.
In addition to playing the first football game in Florida, the Hatters played the state’s first intercollegiate baseball game in 1895 and the first intercollegiate basketball game in 1900. All part of the great history of “Florida’s First Private University.” The Hatters later became the first college basketball team in the state of Florida to win 1000 games.
A 7-game series between intramural teams from Stetson and Forbes occurred in 1894, marking the first football games in the state of Florida. The first intercollegiate game between official varsity teams was played on November 22, 1901.
Stetson University fielded the first football team in Florida in 1901, marking the beginning of a gridiron tradition that would span over five decades. The Hatters participated in one bowl game, the 1952 Tangerine Bowl.
Football's Fluctuations: From Inception to Revival
Stetson participated in football from 1901 until 1956 achieving an all-time record of 155-127-27 (.545). The football team earned its 100th victory in 1935. However, the school dropped the sport in 1956, leaving a void in the university's athletic landscape.
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After a 57-year hiatus, on August 31, 2013, Stetson revived their football program against Warner University (who were playing in their inaugural football game) at Spec Martin Stadium. The Hatters held a lead of 10-3 with 12:35 remaining in the 2nd quarter when the game was suspended due to lightning.
The team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and are members of the Pioneer Football League. The team plays its home games at the 6,000 seat Spec Martin Stadium in DeLand, Florida.
Notable Achievements and Alumni
Stetson Athletics has produced numerous accomplished athletes and coaches who have left their mark on the university and the wider sports world.
Pete Dunn served 37 seasons as the Hatters’ baseball skipper, leading Stetson to 1,312 victories and 18 NCAA Regional appearances. He was inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2014. Also in 2014, Glenn Wilkes was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
On May 5, 2017, Donald Payne was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Baltimore Ravens. Though he would be cut, he would be picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he would become a star on special teams, becoming the first player from Stetson to play in the NFL. Payne spent two months on the injured reserve list at Jacksonville near the end of 2018, and was waived in May 2019.
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Nothing makes us prouder than to see our alumni go on to successful careers, both on the off the field. Women’s Soccer forward Tessa Gavilsky enjoyed a successful professional career after graduating from Stetson in 2011. Dr. Former basketball player Ted Cassidy (1952-55) became an actor after graduating from Stetson. One of Hollywood’s top character actors in the 60s and 70s, Cassidy gained significant fame playing Lurch the Butler on TVs the Addams Family.
Facilities: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Home to one of the most picturesque campuses in the nation, Stetson University makes an immediate impression on its visitors. The beautiful landscaping, historic architecture and modern amenities attract students from all over the globe. Similarly, our athletic programs can recruit the finest talent because of our first-class facilities. Since 1997, Stetson has opened the Mandy Stoll Tennis Center, the Wilson Athletic Center, Melching Field at Conrad Park, Patricia Wilson Field, the Athletic Training Center and the Sandra Stetson Aquatic Center, all geared to the training and development of our student-athletes. The beauty, charm, and character of these facilities blend perfectly with our spectacular campus. In reflection of our low student-to-faculty ratio, these facilities are intimate by design and allow our fans to connect with our student-athletes on a personal level.
Stetson's Vision and Core Values
Stetson University's Athletics Program has a vision of developing a culture of champions athletically, academically and within the community. This vision is accomplished through a mission of recruiting and developing student-athletes, coaches and staff, creating a culture of champions, within and outside of competition. The department operates with five core values: Championship Culture, Integrity, Excellence, Pride/Tradition and Leadership.
Just as Stetson University is committed to providing a rigorous academic curriculum, we are committed to preparing our student-athletes for athletic excellence. This includes daily physical and intellectual training, mental health awareness, athletic nutrition guidance, and high-intensity practices.
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