The Dartmouth Big Green stands as one of the most respected athletic programs in Ivy League history. Known for excellence across various sports, Dartmouth Big Green football and Dartmouth Big Green basketball have built strong traditions of teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship. The teams’ dedication continues to inspire students, alumni, and fans across generations.
College Sports Established
1769
Location
Hanover, New Hampshire
College Name
Dartmouth College
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1954 - Present / Ivy League
Nickname
Big Green - The Dartmouth Big Green is one of the most iconic nicknames in college sports. It evokes images of a proud and successful athletic program, but many fans may not be aware of where it came from or how it became associated with Dartmouth College. The origin story behind the nickname dates back to 1866 when students at the school began referring to themselves as “Big Green” due to their green uniforms.
Dartmouth Big Green Origin
At first, this was just an informal term used by students and alumni. Still, eventually, it grew into something much more significant when sportswriters started using “Big Green” to refer collectively to all teams representing Dartmouth College in sporting events. This included football, basketball, baseball, and other sports that were part of NCAA competitions throughout New England during this time.
As more people heard about these teams being referred to as “Big Green,” they began associating them with success on the field, too, so much so that by 1923 official merchandise featuring logos for various Big Green teams started appearing in stores across America! From there on out, any team representing Dartmouth College has been known colloquially (and officially) as "Dartmouth BigGreen."
Today if you attend a game wearing anything bearing those words, you will be instantly recognized among your fellow fans – no matter what sport or competition is taking place! So next time someone asks why they are called "Dartmouth BigGreen," you know: over 150 years ago, some clever student thought up an excellent name for his university's athletic squads, which has since become synonymous with excellence both on-and-off field!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1911
- 1935
- 2010
- 2018
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Dartmouth wins the Ivy League championship
1911: Dartmouth wins the Ivy League championship, its first conference title in basketball. -
Coach Earl “Red” Blaik
1935: Dartmouth hires Earl “Red” Blaik as head football coach. Blaik later goes on to coach at West Point and becomes a College Football Hall of Fame inductee. -
Kyle Hendricks – named the Ivy League Player of the Year
In 2010: Dartmouth pitcher Kyle Hendricks is named the Ivy League Player of the Year. He later goes on to play in the MLB for the Chicago Cubs. -
Dartmouth women’s soccer team wins the Ivy League
In 2018: The Dartmouth women’s soccer team wins the Ivy League championship and advances to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2011.
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.
Dartmouth Big Green History
The Dartmouth Big Green has a long and proud history of excellence in NCAA Division I athletics. Competing since the early 20th century, the college’s athletic programs have built a reputation for success and integrity. From Dartmouth Big Green football to Dartmouth Big Green basketball, the teams have consistently represented Ivy League traditions with pride and achievement.
The Dartmouth Big Green basketball program began in 1904 and quickly grew into one of the Ivy League’s most competitive teams. The men’s team claimed conference championships in 1954–55 and 1956–57, showcasing outstanding talent and teamwork. Over the years, the program has made multiple postseason appearances, including both NIT and NCAA tournaments, earning national recognition for its resilience and strong performance.
The women’s basketball team has also been a powerhouse in Ivy League competition. Under head coach Belle Koclanes, the program captured three straight regular-season titles from 2011 to 2014, setting a new standard for excellence in Dartmouth Big Green basketball. Their dedication and consistency continue to inspire new generations of players on the court.
The Dartmouth Big Green football team, established in 1881, stands as one of the most successful Ivy League football programs. With numerous conference titles, Dartmouth football has produced legendary rivalries—especially against the Columbia Lions—and remains a dominant force in Ivy League play. The team’s strong leadership and disciplined playstyle have contributed to its reputation as a football powerhouse.
Beyond basketball and football, Dartmouth’s athletic legacy extends to hockey, baseball, and lacrosse. The hockey program began in 1903 with its first matchup against Harvard, while baseball dates back to 1893. The lacrosse team officially launched in 1913, becoming a consistent competitor within the Ivy League. Together, these programs define the spirit of the Dartmouth Big Green, combining athletic excellence with academic integrity.
Big Green Achievements
Over the years, many Dartmouth athletes have gone on to professional careers. Notable alumni include NFL quarterback Jeff Kemp, NBA forward Matt Bonner, NHL players Lee Stempniak and Grant Lewis, and MLB pitcher Mike Remlinger. Their achievements highlight the school’s strong athletic foundation and commitment to developing well-rounded competitors.
Today, the Dartmouth Big Green continues to thrive across all major sports. The football and basketball teams remain cornerstones of Dartmouth’s athletic identity, while new generations of players carry forward the legacy of teamwork, perseverance, and excellence. With such a proud tradition, Dartmouth Big Green football and Dartmouth Big Green basketball will continue to inspire both fans and student-athletes for years to come.
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