College Sports Established
1964
Location
Cleveland, Ohio
College Name
Cleveland State University
Collegiate History
1994 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1994 - Present / Horizon League
Nickname
Vikings - The Cleveland State Vikings have a proud and storied history of athletic excellence, but many may not know the origins of their nickname. The Viking moniker was first adopted in 1922 by then-Cleveland College President William E. Sleigh as an homage to his Norwegian heritage.
At that time, Norse mythology had become famous throughout Europe and America due to its romanticized portrayal in literature, such as the works of JRR Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings trilogy or Wagner’s Ring Cycle operas. Sleigh chose this name because he believed it embodied strength, courage, and perseverance—all qualities that he hoped would be reflected in his school’s athletes for years to come!
Since then, the Cleveland State Vikings have made quite a name for themselves on campus and beyond with dozens of NCAA tournament appearances across multiple sports programs, including basketball, soccer & more! They even won back-to-back conference championships during their men’s basketball team's run from 2009–2011!
While much has changed since those early days when President Sleigh introduced the Viking mascot over ninety years ago--the spirit behind its selection remains true today: Strength & courage will always lead us forward, no matter what challenges lie ahead! So next time you cheer on your beloved CSU squad, remember that they carry an extraordinary legacy established long before them--one rooted deep within Norse mythology itself!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1986
- 2008
- 2012
-
Men’s basketball NCAA Sweet 16
The Vikings have appeared in three NCAA Tournaments, most recently in 2021. In 1986, Cleveland State advanced to the NCAA Sweet 16. The 1985–86 season is arguably the most memorable in Vikings history, as they achieved the improbable in becoming the first ever 14th seeded team to make it to the Sweet Sixteen of the 1986 NCAA tournament. Cleveland State ... -
Women’s Basketball NCAA Success
The Cleveland State Vikings women’s basketball team represents Cleveland State University in women’s basketball. Since 1994, they have been a member of the Horizon League. Cleveland State has made three appearances in NCAA tournament titled Horizon League Team Championship in 2008, 2010 & 2023. -
Men’s Soccer: NCAA Champions
The Cleveland State Vikings men’s soccer team represent Cleveland State University in the Horizon League of NCAA Division I soccer. Cleveland State men’s soccer has made nine appearances in the NCAA Tournament .For the first time since 1980 the Cleveland State Vikings have qualified for the NCAA Men’s Soccer Division I tournament. CSU, a program that has now qualified for ...
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.
History of the Vikings
One thing that makes CSU stand out from other universities with athletic programs is its commitment to excellence on and off the field. They strive for greatness not only when it comes to wins but also when it comes to academics; many athletes who have gone through this program have excelled academically and athletically during their time here. This dedication to academic achievement helps set them apart from other schools around Ohio and across America!
In terms of successes and on-field accomplishments, the Vikings can boast an impressive list that includes multiple conference titles and NCAA tournament appearances since joining Division I in the 1972–73 season. They’ve had some great players come through these doors, such as former NBA star Norris Cole, who played three seasons for CSU before being drafted by the Miami Heat's 2011 first-round pick Kyrie Irving. He also played under head coach Gary Waters for two seasons before going pro after his sophomore year! Other notable alumni include current NBA player Alonzo Gee (Washington Wizards) & former NFL quarterback Jeff Garcia (San Francisco 49ers).
The Vikings' rich tradition continues today, and fans can look forward to many exciting games every season, whether against rival teams or just watching some competitive matchups within the Horizon League Conference itself! It's clear why so many people love cheering on these fantastic student-athletes each week – no matter what happens, you know you're always getting your money’s worth when supporting Cleveland State Vikings Athletics!
Sports Fan Products
