The Lehigh Mountain Hawks represent Lehigh University with a long tradition of excellence in college athletics. Known for their success in Lehigh Mountain Hawks football and Lehigh Mountain Hawks basketball, the teams have built a lasting reputation for determination, sportsmanship, and achievement across NCAA Division I competition, inspiring generations of student-athletes and fans alike.
College Sports Established
1865
Location
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
College Name
Lehigh University
Collegiate History
1979 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1986 - Present / Patriot League
1979 - 1986 / Independent
Nickname
Mountain Hawks - The Lehigh Mountain Hawks have been a fixture in NCAA sports since the late 19th century. As one of the oldest teams in college athletics, they’ve had plenty of time to develop traditions and build a fan base. One tradition that stands out is their nickname: The Mountain Hawks. But where did this name come from?
Lehigh Mountain Hawks Origin
The origins of the Lehigh Mountain Hawk can be traced back to 1895 when two rival universities merged to form what is now known as Lehigh University. Both schools already had mascots – The Engineers for one school and The Huskies for another – but after merging into one university, it was decided that they needed an all-encompassing mascot that represented both sides equally well. After much deliberation, it was decided that “Mountain Hawk” would be fitting because not only does it represent strength and power (like a hawk), but it also represents resilience (like mountains).
Since then, fans have proudly embraced the mountain hawk as their team's official mascot! From cheering them on during football games at Goodman Stadium or basketball games at Stabler Arena - no matter what sport you're watching - you'll always hear chants of "Go Hawks" echoing throughout campus! So next time you cheer on your favorite team, shout, “Go Mountainhawks!"
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1884
- 1960
- 1995
- 2008
- 2020
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Lehigh’s First Intercollegiate Football Game
In 1884, Lehigh plays its first intercollegiate football game, against Lafayette College. -
Middle Atlantic Conference Championship for Basketball
In 1960, Lehigh’s basketball team wins the Middle Atlantic Conference championship. -
Patriot League Championship
1995: Lehigh’s football team wins the Patriot League championship and makes its first appearance in the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs. -
C.J. McCollum Basketball Legend
C.J. McCollum – McCollum was a standout basketball player for Lehigh in the late 2000s and early 2010s, leading the team to a stunning upset over Duke in the 2012 NCAA Tournament. He was drafted 10th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013 and has since become an NBA All-Star. -
Sports Program Cuts Due to COVID-19 Pandemic
2020: Lehigh Athletics announces the decision to cut several sports programs, including men’s and women’s swimming and diving, and men’s and women’s golf, due to financial constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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.
Lehigh Mountain Hawks History
The Lehigh Mountain Hawks have been a cornerstone of NCAA athletics since their founding in 1883. Known for their historic rivalry with the Boston University Terriers, the Mountain Hawks have built a tradition defined by excellence, passion, and perseverance. As one of the oldest athletic programs in the nation, Lehigh Mountain Hawks football and Lehigh Mountain Hawks basketball have both played vital roles in shaping collegiate sports.
During the early years, Lehigh developed a strong foundation in multiple sports, setting the stage for decades of success. The Lehigh Mountain Hawks football program, in particular, gained national attention for its dominance in the Patriot League. Over the years, the team produced exceptional players and memorable performances that solidified its reputation as one of the most competitive programs in Division I FCS football.
In basketball, Lehigh made history with back-to-back Patriot League championships during the 1990s under coach Fran McCaffery. The program rose to prominence again in the early 2000s, earning multiple NCAA Tournament appearances under Billy Taylor. The Lehigh Mountain Hawks basketball team became known for its resilience and high-level performance, including notable wins over top-ranked teams and producing standout athletes who went on to play professionally.
Hawks Achievements
Beyond basketball, Lehigh’s athletic excellence spans several sports, including baseball, lacrosse, and track and field. The Lehigh Mountain Hawks baseball team has seen remarkable players like Mike Mussina and Ryan Howard emerge as MLB stars. The football program continued its tradition of success, earning an 11–3 record in 2019 with major victories over nationally ranked opponents, reaffirming Lehigh’s dominance in collegiate football.
The Lehigh Mountain Hawks have also excelled academically, producing scholar-athletes who embody the university’s values of integrity and leadership. Their strong presence in both athletics and academics highlights the balance between performance and personal growth that defines Lehigh University.
Throughout their history, the Lehigh Mountain Hawks football and Lehigh Mountain Hawks basketball teams have captured multiple Patriot League titles and postseason appearances, making the program one of the most respected in collegiate sports. With over 137 years of legacy, the Mountain Hawks continue to inspire new generations of athletes and fans, carrying forward a proud tradition of excellence that remains unmatched in college athletics.
