The Boston Terriers represent Boston University with pride across multiple sports, including Boston Terriers hockey and Boston Terriers football. Known for their dedication, teamwork, and winning legacy, the Terriers have built one of the most respected athletic programs in college sports, earning national recognition through decades of competitive excellence.
College Sports Established
1839
Location
Boston, Massachusetts
College Name
Boston University
Collegiate History
1979 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2013 - Present / Patriot League
1979 - 2013 / America East Conference
Nickname
Terrier - Regarding sports teams, nicknames can often be as iconic and beloved as the team. The Boston Terriers are no exception! Their nickname has an interesting origin story that is steeped in NCAA history.
Boston Terriers Origin
The term "Boston Terrier" was first used by students at Boston University during the late 19th century when they began referring to themselves as “Terriers” due to their school's official mascot being a bulldog. As time passed, this nickname became associated with all of BU's athletic teams—including its collegiate football program, which eventually joined the NCAA in 1932.
From then on out, any college-level sport involving BU was referred to by fans (and opponents alike) using the same moniker: “Boston Terriers." This name has been proudly adopted by those who attend or have attended Boston University and anyone else who cheers for them from afar! It serves as a reminder of where these athletes come from and how much support they have behind them at each step of their journey toward success.
So next time you hear someone refer to BU's athletics team(s) collectively or individually using this unique moniker - you'll know why! The origins go back more than 100 years ago when students chose it for themselves – making sure that everyone knew what kind of tenacity lies within every one of these incredible players representing our city's university with pride & dedication year after year.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1922
- 2005
- 2011
- 2013
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Official Mascot “Rhett the Boston Terrier”
Rhett the Boston Terrier is the official costumed mascot of the Boston University (BU) and the Boston University Academy (BUA) Terriers. The Boston Terrier has been the BU mascot since 1922. The often snarling, bi-pedal black and white Boston Terrier was later named after the male lead in Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind, because “No one loves Scarlett more ... -
Terriers New Arena “Agganis Arena”
In 2005, Boston University opened Agganis Arena for Hockey and Basketball. The facility was designed as a hockey arena: a departure from BU’s Walter Brown Arena which had the smallest playing ice in Division I. Agganis Arena seats six to seven thousand, and also serves the city of Boston as a mid-size venue for popular events that could not fill ... -
Darryl Partin
Darryl Partin (born December 7, 1987) is an American former professional basketball player. In college, he was an All-American at Boston University in 2011–12, the same year he was named the America East Conference Player of the Year. -
Joining Patriot League
On July 1, 2013, Boston University left the America East Conference and joined the Patriot League.
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.
Boston Terriers History
The Boston Terriers have been a cornerstone of NCAA athletics for more than a century, representing Boston University with excellence and pride. Known for their fierce rivalry with the Lehigh Mountain Hawks, the Boston Terriers have earned a reputation as one of the most respected and accomplished collegiate programs in the nation.
The program began in 1884 when the university fielded its first Boston Terriers football team. This marked the beginning of a rich legacy that continues to thrive today. Over the years, the Terriers have built success across multiple sports, not only in football but also in Boston Terriers hockey, basketball, and other varsity competitions.
Boston Terriers hockey has been one of the most dominant programs in the NCAA, earning five national championships (1971, 1972, 1978, 1995, and 2009). The Terriers have consistently produced NHL-caliber talent and remain a powerhouse in the Hockey East Conference. Their iconic rivalry with Boston College continues to be one of the most anticipated matchups in college hockey each season.
In Boston Terriers football, the team was among the oldest programs in college sports, competing with passion and producing several NFL-level players before the program ended in 1997. Despite its conclusion, the legacy of Boston University football remains strong, remembered for its grit and competitive spirit that helped shape the university’s athletic identity.
Terriers Achievements
Beyond football and hockey, Boston University’s athletic excellence extends across multiple sports. The Terriers have claimed numerous conference championships, NCAA tournament appearances, and All-American honors. The university takes pride in developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the field, representing the true spirit of collegiate sportsmanship.
Notable alumni include NFL Hall of Famers John Hannah and Mike Haynes, both of whom built legendary careers after their time with the Boston Terriers. Their achievements reflect the lasting impact of BU’s athletic programs on American sports history.
Today, the Boston Terriers continue to shine as a symbol of determination, teamwork, and tradition. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd at a Boston Terriers hockey game or the proud memories of Boston Terriers football, the Terrier legacy remains a vital part of Boston University’s enduring success.
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