College Sports Established
1839
Location
Farmville, Virginia
College Name
Longwood University
Collegiate History
2005 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2012 - Present / Big South Conference
2005 - 2012 / Independent
Nickname
Lancers - The origin of the nickname "Lancers" for Longwood University can be traced back to the university's early days as a small teacher's college. In the late 1920s, the school's athletic teams were known as the "Teachers," a nod to the university's focus on education. However, in the early 1930s, the school's president at the time, Dr. William Henry Ruffner, sought to change the image of the university and its athletic teams. He wanted a name that would reflect the school's location in the heart of Virginia's historic and horse-loving countryside. After much deliberation, the name "Lancers" was chosen, paying homage to the elite cavalry units of Eastern Europe known for their bravery and skill on horseback.
The Lancers nickname quickly caught on and became a source of pride for the university. The school's athletic teams began to adopt the colors of red and blue, which were also the colors of the Polish Lancers, further solidifying the connection to the nickname. The Lancers moniker also aligned with the university's mission of preparing students to be leaders and champions in their fields, just as the Lancers were known for their leadership and bravery on the battlefield. Today, the Lancers nickname is still a source of pride for the Longwood community, and the university's athletic teams continue to embody the spirit of the Lancers through their determination, skill, and passion for their sport.
In addition to its historical significance, the Lancers nickname has also become a symbol of unity and camaraderie among the Longwood community. Students, alumni, and fans proudly wear the Lancers logo on clothing and merchandise, creating a sense of belonging and pride in their school. The Lancers nickname has also become a rallying cry for the university's athletic teams, with fans chanting "Go Lancers!" at games and events. The nickname has become a beloved tradition at Longwood University, representing the school's rich history, determination, and spirit of excellence. As a Lancer fan, I am proud to be a part of this tradition and to support the Lancers in all their endeavors.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
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.
History of the Lancers
The Lancers have a long-standing reputation for producing top-notch athletes in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, and field hockey. In fact, many Lancers athletes have gone on to compete at the professional level, including in the NBA and MLS. The university's commitment to providing its student-athletes with top-notch facilities and resources has played a key role in their success. The Lancers also have a strong sense of community and pride, with students, alumni, and fans coming together to support their teams and celebrate their victories. Longwood's dedication to excellence both on and off the field is what truly sets them apart and makes them a force to be reckoned with in the world of college sports. As a Lancer fan, I am proud to be a part of this rich history and look forward to many more years of success for our beloved teams.
Sports Fan Products
