The American Eagles represent American University with pride and excellence across NCAA Division I athletics. Known for their dedication and teamwork, both American Eagles basketball and American Eagles football have built lasting traditions of success. Over the decades, the program has produced standout athletes who embody the spirit and determination of the university.
College Sports Established
1893
Location
Washington, District of Columbia
College Name
American University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1966 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
2001 - Present / Patriot League
1984 - 2001 / Colonial Athletic Association
1974 - 1984 / East Coast Conference
1966 - 1974 / Middle Atlantic Conferences
Nickname
Eagles - The American Eagles are one of the NCAA's most iconic college football teams, but do you know where their nickname comes from? It’s an exciting story that dates back to World War I.
American Eagles Origin
In 1917, when America entered WWI, a group of students at Lafayette College decided they wanted to show support for their country by creating a mascot. They chose an eagle as it was seen as a symbol of strength and power – perfect for representing America’s military might during wartime. The team adopted the name “American Eagles” and began using it on uniforms and other athletic gear.
From there, the American Eagles became one of college football's premier programs, with several national titles. While some have speculated that there may be more to this story than meets the eye (such as honoring Native Americans or another type of tribute), no concrete evidence has been found so far linking any deeper meaning behind why this nickname was chosen all those years ago!
Regardless, fans can take pride in knowing that their beloved team is rooted in patriotism – which will always remain valid regardless of whether they win or lose on game day! So next time you cheer on your favorite squad from Lafayette College, remember how much history lies within each call-out: "Go American Eagles!"
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1925
- 1969
- 1974
- 2008
-
Starting of American Eagles Athletics Program
American University was founded in 1893, and the first building opened for classes in 1907. But it wasn’t until the fall of 1925 that the university organized intercollegiate athletics. The university fielded both a men’s and women’s basketball team, and a football team. George Springston was appointed athletic director (AD) and head coach of the men’s basketball team and football ... -
Stafford H. Cassell Hall of Fame
In 1969, American University established an athletics Hall of Fame and named it the Stafford H. Cassell Hall of Fame, in honor of the school’s late football coach, athletic director, and vice president. Cassell was the head football coach at American University in Washington, D.C. from 1940 to 1941 and at the Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa in 1942. ... -
Founding Member of East Coast Conference
In February 1974, AU became a founding member of the East Coast Conference. The conference formed after several years of discussion by AU and 11 other schools which played in the University Division of the MAC. -
Eagles men’s basketball in NCAA
In 2008, the Eagles earned their first ever bid to the NCAA Division I tournament by defeating Colgate in the final round of the Patriot League tournament. The Eagles were seeded 15th against #2 Tennessee. American held tight against the Volunteers most of the game, but Tennessee pulled away to win 72–57.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
American Eagles History
The American Eagles have a proud and enduring legacy in NCAA athletics, representing American University with determination and excellence. Since their first competitive season in 1947, the American Eagles football and American Eagles basketball programs have built a strong reputation for skill, sportsmanship, and academic achievement across multiple sports.
In the early decades, the American Eagles football team emerged as a strong competitor, earning three conference championships, including two outright titles. Their rivalry with Loyola (MD) fueled some of the most exciting games in program history. The Eagles made four bowl appearances and reached the FCS playoffs six consecutive times between 2006 and 2011. That stretch featured back-to-back national championship game appearances in 2010 and 2011 — a defining moment in the team’s proud history. Legendary players such as Art Monk, who later became an NFL Hall of Famer with the Washington Redskins, began his journey with the Eagles, adding prestige to the program.
The American Eagles basketball program has also experienced tremendous growth since joining Division I play in 2003. The team has captured five regular-season conference titles and appeared twice each in the NCAA and NIT tournaments. Their 2022–23 campaign stood out as one of the most exciting seasons in recent memory, sharing the CAA title and advancing into March Madness. Despite falling to the Oregon Ducks in the second round, the Eagles’ performance reflected their steady rise as a respected program within college basketball.
Eagles Achievements
Beyond the court and field, the Eagles have excelled in track and field, showing their all-around athletic depth. Since joining Division I competition in 2009, the program has produced multiple regional qualifiers and secured nine top-ten finishes at the East Regional Championships. Their commitment to training and development continues to build a strong foundation for future success.
Throughout their history, the American Eagles have demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and a winning spirit. Whether it’s the energy of American Eagles basketball, the pride of American Eagles football, or the determination seen in every athlete representing the university, the program’s legacy continues to grow stronger each year. With dedicated players, passionate fans, and a tradition rooted in excellence, the American Eagles remain a symbol of collegiate pride and achievement.
