The Georgia Southern Eagles have built a lasting reputation for excellence in college athletics. Known for their strong Georgia Southern Eagles football program and competitive Georgia Southern Eagles baseball team, they’ve achieved remarkable success across NCAA levels. Their dedication, championships, and passionate fan base make the Georgia Southern Eagles a respected name in collegiate sports.
College Sports Established
1906
Location
Statesboro, Georgia
College Name
Georgia Southern University
Collegiate History
1982 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2014 - Present / Sun Belt Conference
1991 - 2014 / Southern Conference
1982 - 1991 / Independent
Nickname
Eagles - The Georgia Southern Eagles have been a staple of the NCAA for decades, and their nickname has become an iconic symbol of college sports. But where did it come from?
Georgia Southern Eagles Origin
It all began in 1924 when the school was founded as First District Agricultural & Mechanical School. At that time, they were known simply as “the A&M” or “the Aggies” – both references to the school's agriculture and mechanical engineering programs at its founding. However, this name didn’t last long; only two years later, in 1926, they changed their mascot to one more fitting with their location: The Eagle! This new nickname paid homage to Georgia's official state bird - also found on many county flags throughout the state - while providing a solid symbol for athletes competing under its banner.
The eagle quickly became associated with strength and power – values still held dear by fans today – but there was more than just symbolism behind this choice of a mascot; it had practical implications too! With such a large bird representing them on game day (eagles can reach up 7 feet tall!), opponents would be intimidated before even stepping onto the field/court… giving our beloved Eagles an advantage immediately!
Today we proudly cheer on our mighty Eagles at every home game, knowing what inspired such an iconic moniker so many years ago! So whether you've been around since '24 or just started following along recently, take comfort in knowing you're part of something much bigger than yourself... Go EAGLES!!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1933
- 1985
- 2000
- 2008
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First Year of Baseball for Eagles
Georgia Southern played its first year of baseball in 1933. The team went to the College World Series in 1973 and 1990 and has appeared in 11 NCAA regionals. The team was also crowned the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Champions in 1962, sweeping Portland State. -
First Football national championship Win
Coach Erk Russell and the Eagles won their first national championship vs. Furman University in the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington. Quarterback Tracy Ham threw for 419 yards and rushed for another 90 to overcome a 28–6 deficit. -
Sixth FCS Championship Win
The Eagles defeated the Montana Grizzlies to win their sixth and final FCS championship. -
Georgia Southern Eagles baseball Record
In 2008, the Eagles set an NCAA record when they hit 14 home runs in a single game.
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.
Georgia Southern Eagles History
The Georgia Southern Eagles have built one of the most respected traditions in NCAA athletics. Founded in 1906, the university quickly rose to prominence for its excellence in multiple sports. Known for their fierce rivalry with the Georgia State Panthers, the Georgia Southern Eagles compete in the Sun Belt Conference and are part of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
The Georgia Southern Eagles football program is one of the strongest in the nation. Since moving to FBS in 2014, the team has captured six conference titles and earned multiple bowl appearances. Their first major FBS victory came in 2016 when the Eagles defeated Bowling Green 58–27 in the GoDaddy Bowl, marking a new era of success for Georgia Southern Eagles football.
The university’s success isn’t limited to the gridiron. The Georgia Southern Eagles baseball team has been one of the most competitive programs in the Sun Belt. From 2017 to 2019, they secured three consecutive Sun Belt Regular Season Championships and later claimed a National Championship title after an intense 5–4 win over Texas Tech at TD Ameritrade Park Omaha. This victory established Georgia Southern Eagles baseball as a national powerhouse.
Eagles Achievements
In basketball, the Eagles have shown impressive consistency. The men’s team has made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances since 2011, winning two regular season titles and one conference tournament. Their determination and teamwork continue to elevate the reputation of Georgia Southern Eagles athletics.
Over the years, the Georgia Southern Eagles have produced countless memorable moments, from championship victories to record-breaking performances. Their commitment to academic excellence and athletic integrity makes them one of the most respected programs in college sports. With passionate fans and a legacy of success, the Eagles continue to soar higher in every competition they enter.
