The Delaware State Hornets are known for their long-standing excellence in college athletics. From competitive Delaware State Hornets football seasons to success in Delaware State Hornets basketball, the teams have showcased talent and resilience. Representing Delaware State University, the Hornets have built a respected tradition of sportsmanship, pride, and achievement across multiple NCAA sports.
College Sports Established
1891
Location
Dover, Delaware
College Name
Delaware State University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1970 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1970 - Present / Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Nickname
Hornets - The Delaware State Hornets have a rich history and a solid fan base, but many may not know the origins of their beloved team's nickname. A local sportswriter named the Delaware State football team "Hornets" in the 1920s. The writer was inspired by the team's tenacity and aggressive playing style, similar to a swarm of hornets. The nickname stuck and has been proudly embraced by the university and its fans.
Delaware State Hornets Origin
Not only does the nickname hold a special meaning for the team, but it also has cultural significance for the state of Delaware. The state insect of Delaware is the honey bee, and the honey bee's natural predator is the hornet. This connection to the state's official insect further solidifies the significance of the Hornets' nickname. It represents the team's fierce competitiveness and its deep roots in Delaware.
Over the years, the Delaware State Hornets have proven to be a formidable force in college sports. The nickname "Hornets" has become synonymous with hard work, determination, and a never-give-up attitude. It is a source of pride for both the team and its fans and serves as a constant reminder of the team's origins and the values it stands for. As a dedicated Hornets fan, I am proud to support a team with such a meaningful and iconic nickname, and I look forward to seeing the team continue to soar to new heights.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 2005
- 2007
- 2007
- 2022
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Hornets NCAA Participation
The Delaware State Hornets men’s basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Hornets have appeared in the NCAA tournament one time in 2005. Men’s basketball team won the 2005 MEAC championship. The Hornets have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT back to back in 2006 and 2007. They also have appeared in the College Basketball Invitational ... -
Hornet’s to go a long way
The Delaware State Hornets women’s basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. Delaware State began play in 1976. They have won one regular season title (2004) and one tournament title (2007). The team won the 2006 MEAC championship and earned a berth in the 2006 NCAA tournament. -
NCAA Appearance after MEAC Win
The Delaware State Hornets football team represents Delaware State University (DSU) at the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision level as a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Delaware State has won 9 conference championships as of the 2020 season. In the 2007 season the Hornets made a school record of 10 wins, their MEAC championship since 1991 and ... -
MEAC-NEC Baseball Merger
The Delaware State Hornets baseball team competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division I and is a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC). In the 2022 season, the Hornets had competed in the school’s full-time home of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), but after that season, the MEAC merged its baseball league into that of the NEC.
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Delaware State Hornets History
The Delaware State Hornets have built a proud and respected legacy in college sports, especially in their fierce rivalry with the Morgan State Bears. Since the athletic program’s founding in 1911, Delaware State University has developed teams that reflect hard work, resilience, and consistent excellence across multiple NCAA disciplines, including Delaware State Hornets football and Delaware State Hornets basketball.
The first Delaware State Hornets football game took place in 1924 against Lincoln University, marking the beginning of a historic journey. That matchup started decades of tradition and rivalries that helped shape the team’s identity. Over the years, the Hornets have claimed numerous MEAC conference titles and produced standout NFL talents who carried the university’s name into the professional ranks.
Beyond football, Delaware State Hornets basketball has earned significant recognition. The men’s basketball program achieved its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 2005, following several strong regular seasons and MEAC titles. The women’s basketball team has also shown consistent growth, frequently competing at the top level of the conference and earning multiple postseason opportunities.
Hornets Achievements
The Hornets’ success extends beyond the court and field. Track and field athletes have captured multiple MEAC championships and represented the school at national competitions, showcasing the depth of athletic talent at Delaware State University. The university’s investment in state-of-the-art training facilities and coaching has further strengthened its reputation.
In recent years, both Delaware State Hornets football and Delaware State Hornets basketball programs have continued to build momentum, emphasizing academic excellence alongside athletic performance. With a legacy rooted in determination, the Delaware State Hornets remain one of the most respected programs in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, inspiring new generations of athletes and fans alike.
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