The Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs have a proud history in Big South Conference athletics. Known for their competitive edge, both Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs football and Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs basketball programs have achieved conference titles, playoff appearances, and produced standout athletes who embody hard work, sportsmanship, and a lasting tradition of excellence.
College Sports Established
1905
Location
Boiling Springs, North Carolina
College Name
Gardner–Webb University
Collegiate History
2000 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2008 - Present / Big South Conference
2000 - 2008 / Independent
Nickname
Runnin Bulldogs - The Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs have a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. The nickname "Runnin' Bulldogs" was first used in the 1920s when the school was known as Boiling Springs Junior College.
Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs Origin
The nickname was given to the school's athletic teams because of their tenacity and determination on the field, court, and track. This nickname perfectly embodies the spirit and attitude of the Gardner-Webb community, as the Runnin' Bulldogs have always been known for their hard work and never-give-up attitude.
In the 1960s, Boiling Springs Junior College officially changed its name to Gardner-Webb College, and the nickname "Runnin' Bulldogs" stuck. The name not only reflects the athletic prowess of the school's teams, but also the relentless drive and determination of the students, faculty, and staff. The Runnin' Bulldogs have always been known for their fierce competitiveness and never backing down from a challenge, whether on the field or in the classroom.
Today, the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs continue to live up to their nickname, both on and off the field. The school has grown and evolved, but the spirit of the Runnin' Bulldogs remains the same. The nickname is a source of pride for the entire Gardner-Webb community and serves as a reminder of the school's rich history and tradition. As a fan of the Runnin' Bulldogs, I am proud to support a team that embodies the true spirit of Gardner-Webb - a team that never gives up, always gives their all, and runs towards success with determination and grit.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
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Gardner Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs History
The Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs have a proud and enduring legacy in collegiate sports. Based in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, the university has built a strong reputation within the Big South Conference, especially in its long-standing rivalry with the High Point Panthers. Known for their determination, teamwork, and excellence, the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs continue to be one of the most respected programs in college athletics.
The history of the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs stretches back to 1905, when the school was established as Boiling Springs High School. Over time, the institution evolved into Gardner–Webb University, adopting the “Runnin’ Bulldogs” name in 1970. Since then, the university has expanded its athletics program to include numerous sports, producing standout athletes and earning widespread recognition for its competitive spirit and success.
The Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs football program has been one of the cornerstones of the school’s athletics. Competing in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), the team has won multiple Big South titles and secured playoff berths that showcased its resilience on the field. The program is widely admired for its balanced offensive and defensive strategies, making the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs football team a tough opponent every season.
Runnin Bulldogs Achievements
Equally impressive is the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs basketball program, which reached a historic milestone in 2019 by earning its first NCAA Tournament appearance. This achievement highlighted years of steady growth and dedication from players, coaches, and fans. With consistent Big South performances and a tradition of producing exceptional talent, the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs basketball team continues to elevate the university’s athletic profile.
Beyond football and basketball, the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs excel in other sports like baseball, track & field, and soccer, further strengthening the school’s reputation for athletic excellence. The university’s commitment to fostering competitive programs across all sports has made it a respected name in collegiate athletics.
In recent years, the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs football team earned national recognition with postseason appearances and thrilling victories over conference rivals. At the same time, the Gardner Webb Runnin Bulldogs basketball team has continued to build on its NCAA success, making deep runs in conference tournaments and developing future professional athletes. These achievements stand as proof of the program’s hard work, tradition, and bright future in NCAA Division I sports.
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