The Florida Atlantic Owls have built a respected name in NCAA sports, driven by the success of Florida Atlantic Owls football and Florida Atlantic Owls baseball. For decades, the university’s athletic programs have earned conference titles, postseason appearances, and national recognition, making FAU a powerhouse destination for student-athletes and fans who celebrate competitive spirit and academic achievement alike.
College Sports Established
1980
Location
Boca Raton, Florida
College Name
Florida Atlantic University
Collegiate History
1994 - Present / NCAA Division I
1984 - 1993 / NCAA Division II
1980 - 1983 / NAIA District 25
Conference History
2023 - / American Athletic Conference
2014 - 2023 / Conference USA
2007 - 2013 / Sun Belt Conference
1994 - 2006 / Trans America Athletic Conference
1980 - 1993 / Independent
Nickname
Owls - For many sports fans, the Florida Atlantic Owls are a beloved team with an exciting history. But what’s the origin story behind their unique nickname? Let’s take a look at how this NCAA powerhouse got its name!
Florida Atlantic Owls Origin
The Florida Atlantic Owls have been around since 2001 when they joined Conference USA as part of NCAA Division I-A football. After considering several other options, like Sharks and Pelicans, the university chose “Owls.” Ultimately, they chose Owls due to its association with wisdom and knowledge – values FAU holds dear in all aspects of life on campus.
Additionally, owls were chosen for their connection to the local environment: South Florida is home to numerous species of these majestic birds! It was also believed that having an owl mascot would give FAU a competitive edge over rival schools with more traditional mascots, such as lions or tigers.
From then out, it was only natural for FAU students and alumni alike to embrace “Owl Nation." Fans show up decked out in blue & red apparel featuring our feathered friend whenever possible – from tailgates before games through post-game celebrations after wins! As we continue into another exciting season full of potential victories ahead for our beloved team - let us remember why we love them so much: because they are wise beyond measure, just like their namesake suggests - Go Owls!!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1984
- 2000
- 2005
- 2010
- 2013
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FAU Owls baseball team is founded
In 1984: The FAU Owls baseball team is founded. The team plays its first game on February 17, 1984, against Nova Southeastern University. -
The FAU Owls football team is founded
In 2000: The FAU Owls football team is founded. The team plays its first game on September 1, 2001, against Slippery Rock University. -
FAU Owls baseball team wins the Atlantic Sun Conference championship
In 2005: The FAU Owls baseball team wins the Atlantic Sun Conference championship, earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history. -
Alfred Morris – Football Pro of Owls
Alfred Morris is a former running back who played football for the FAU Owls from 2007 to 2011. Morris is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in FAU football history. As a freshman in 2007, Morris quickly established himself as a standout player, rushing for 928 yards and seven touchdowns. He followed up that impressive debut with even ... -
FAU Owls football team wins the Conference USA championship
2013: The FAU Owls football team wins the Conference USA championship, earning a spot in the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl, which they win over East Carolina University.
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.
Florida Atlantic Owls History
The Florida Atlantic Owls have built a respected tradition in NCAA athletics. Established in 2001, the program began as an independent before joining Conference USA (C-USA) in 2013. Since then, the Florida Atlantic Owls football team has delivered multiple bowl appearances and conference titles. Their fierce rivalry with the UTSA Roadrunners has added intensity and national attention to many games.
The Florida Atlantic Owls football program quickly rose to prominence with standout players such as running back Devin Singletary. Singletary played from 2016 to 2018, earning C-USA Offensive Player of the Year twice. The Owls also produced future NFL talent, including players like Alfred Morris and Rusty Smith, who helped put the school on the map for professional scouts.
Under head coach Lane Kiffin’s leadership beginning in 2017, the Florida Atlantic Owls football team achieved historic success. They won back-to-back Conference USA Championships in 2017 and 2019. Those wins earned bowl invitations, including victories at the Boca Raton Bowl, where the Owls defeated the UCF Knights 28–10 and later triumphed over the UAB Blazers 49–6. Quarterback Chris Robison’s 3,200-yard passing season and MVP honors further solidified the program’s reputation.
Owls Achievements
Beyond football, the Florida Atlantic Owls baseball team has built its own winning tradition. FAU baseball has earned multiple NCAA Regional appearances and produced MLB players such as Jeff Fiorentino and C.J. Chatham. This consistent success showcases the university’s ability to develop top-level talent across sports.
Today, the Florida Atlantic Owls, including Florida Atlantic Owls football and Florida Atlantic Owls baseball, continue to thrive in Conference USA and beyond. With conference titles, bowl wins, NCAA tournament berths, and professional athletes emerging from its programs, FAU remains one of the most dynamic and competitive schools in the nation. Its strong academic support and passionate fan base ensure the tradition will keep growing for years to come.
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