College Sports Established
1826
Location
Greenville, South Carolina
College Name
Furman University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1936 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1936 - Present / Southern Conference
Nickname
Paladins - As a devoted fan of the Furman Paladins, I find the origins of our beloved nickname to be as fascinating and storied as the university itself. The journey from the early days of Furman athletics to the adoption of the "Paladins" moniker is a testament to our community's rich history and vibrant spirit. Let me take you on a journey through time to explore how the Furman Paladins came to embody the values and traditions of our esteemed university.
In the early 20th century, Furman University’s athletic teams were known by various nicknames, reflecting the diverse nature of the sports and the growing identity of the university. The football team was famously called the "Purple Hurricanes," a nod to the school's chosen color, purple, which dates back to the 1890s. This name conjured images of strength and unstoppable force, fitting for the gridiron warriors of the time. Meanwhile, the baseball team was known as the "Hornets," with a reputation for their tenacity and relentless spirit. The cross country and track teams, known as the "Harriers," showcased the endurance and speed of Furman athletes.
"Paladins" first appeared in the 1930s, specifically associated with the basketball team. The credit for this imaginative and evocative nickname goes to J. Carter "Scoop" Latimer, a sports editor for The Greenville News. With his flair for the dramatic and a keen sense of history, Latimer referred to the basketball team as the "Paladins" and the "Paladins of the court." The term "paladin" has deep historical roots, originating from the 8th century. It refers to the legendary knights or heroic champions of Charlemagne's court, known for their bravery, loyalty, and chivalric ideals.
By 1961, the various nicknames for Furman’s athletic teams were consolidated under the single, unifying banner of the "Paladins." This decision was driven by the desire for a cohesive identity that all athletic teams could rally behind. The Pep Club played a significant role in this transition, submitting the proposal for the "Paladins" nickname. A campus poll revealed overwhelming support from the student body, who embraced the noble and heroic connotations of the term. On September 15, 1961, the student body voted to make "Paladins" the official nickname for all intercollegiate athletic teams at Furman. This moment marked the beginning of a new era, where the spirit of chivalry and heroism would define the Furman athletic identity.
The Paladin mascot is a powerful symbol of Furman University’s values and traditions. Representing a knight on horseback, the mascot embodies the ideals of courage, honor, and unwavering commitment to a noble cause. This imagery resonates deeply with fans and athletes, fostering pride and unity within the Furman community.
As a dedicated fan, I take immense pride in the history and significance of the Paladins' nickname. It is more than just a name; it is a legacy that reflects the bravery, determination, and excellence that define Furman University. The journey from the "Purple Hurricanes" to the "Paladins" reminds us of our rich heritage and the enduring spirit that drives us forward. In the stands, on the field, and across the campus, the Paladins' name serves as a rallying cry, inspiring us to strive for greatness and uphold our values. It symbolizes our past, present, and future—a testament to the enduring legacy of Furman University and its extraordinary community. Go, Paladins!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1967
- 1988
- 1995
- 2023
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The Evolution of Furman Soccer
The Furman Paladins men’s soccer team is a member of the Southern Conference, which is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division I. Furman’s first men’s soccer team was fielded in 1967. The team plays its home games at Eugene Stone Stadium in Greenville. -
Furman Football: Consistent Top-3 FCS Contender
The Furman Paladins football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as members of the Southern Conference (SoCon). The Paladins have won 15 conference titles, all in the Southern Conference, with seven shared and eight outright. The Paladins have appeared in the NCAA Division I Football Championship playoffs 20 times. They were national champions in 1988 ... -
Paladins’ NCAA Tournament Journey
The Furman Paladins women’s basketball team currently competes in the Southern Conference. The Paladins began play in 1969. As of the end of the 2015–16 season, they have an all-time record of 535–577. In their two NCAA Tournament appearances, they lost in the first round each time. They lost 74–68 to Auburn in their only WNIT appearance in 2014. -
Furman Basketball: From CIT to the Big Dance
The Furman Paladins men’s basketball team currently competes in the Southern Conference. In 2018, the Paladins entered the College Basketball AP Poll for the first time in program history, coming in at number 23 on December 10. Furman made an appearance in the NCAA Division I Tournament in 2023 after having last appeared in 1980, the 43-year absence being the ...
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History of the Paladins
Furman University’s athletic tradition dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, marked by the burgeoning popularity of collegiate sports across the United States. The university’s athletic programs began to take shape with the establishment of the football team in 1889. Initially known as the "Purple Hurricanes," the team quickly made a name for itself with its formidable presence on the field. The choice of purple as the school color in the 1890s further solidified the team's identity.
In addition to football, Furman developed competitive teams in other sports, including baseball, basketball, and track and field. The baseball team, known as the "Hornets," and the track and field team, referred to as the "Harriers," showcased Furman’s growing athletic prowess. These early years laid the foundation for a robust athletic program to continue expanding and excelling.
The turning point in Furman’s athletic history came in the 1930s with the introduction of the "Paladins" nickname. Coined by J. Carter "Scoop" Latimer, a sports editor for The Greenville News, the term "Paladins" was first associated with the basketball team. The nickname resonated with the university community, symbolizing knights or heroic champions known for their bravery and chivalry.
By 1961, the decision was made to unify all of Furman’s athletic teams under the "Paladins" banner. This move, supported by a campus-wide poll, reflected the desire for a cohesive identity that embodied the noble and heroic ideals of the paladins. The official adoption of the "Paladins" nickname marked the beginning of a new era characterized by a unified and distinctive athletic identity.
Over the decades, the Furman Paladins have achieved numerous milestones and accolades across various sports. The football team, in particular, has enjoyed significant success. Notably, the Paladins secured the NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS) National Championship in 1988, a crowning achievement that remains a highlight in the program’s history. The team has also claimed multiple Southern Conference (SoCon) titles, establishing itself as a formidable force in collegiate football.
In basketball, the Paladins have made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament, demonstrating their competitive edge on the national stage. The program has produced standout players and memorable seasons, contributing to Furman’s rich basketball tradition. Furman’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the major sports.
The university’s cross country and track and field teams have consistently performed high, with athletes earning individual and team honors. The women’s soccer team, established in the 1990s, quickly rose to prominence, capturing multiple SoCon championships and making NCAA Tournament appearances.
A hallmark of Furman University’s athletic program is its unwavering commitment to both academic and athletic excellence. Furman student-athletes are recognized not only for their achievements on the field but also for their academic accomplishments. The university’s emphasis on a well-rounded education ensures that athletes are prepared for success beyond their collegiate careers.
Furman’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive athletic environment has also been instrumental in its success. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, experienced coaching staff, and passionate fan base create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that inspires athletes to reach their full potential.
The history of the Furman Paladins sports teams is a tapestry woven with moments of triumph, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. From the early days of the "Purple Hurricanes" to the unified identity of the "Paladins," Furman’s athletic program has evolved into a symbol of excellence and pride for the university community.
As an expert in the history of the Furman Paladins, I can say that these teams' legacy is built on a foundation of hard work, resilience, and a commitment to upholding the noble ideals embodied by the paladins of old. The future of Furman athletics is bright, and the Paladins are poised to continue their tradition of excellence for generations to come.
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