College Sports Established
1886
Location
Princess Anne, Maryland
College Name
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1970 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1970 - 1979, 1981 - Present / Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Nickname
Hawks - The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks have a rich history and a strong presence in the world of college athletics. The origins of their unique nickname can be traced back to the early 1920s when the university was known as the Maryland State College. At the time, the school's athletic teams were simply referred to as the "State College teams." However, in 1923, during a football game against their rival, the University of Maryland, a group of fans began to chant "Fly Hawks, Fly!" in support of their team. This chant caught on and soon became the official cheer for the State College teams, leading to the adoption of the Hawks as their official nickname.
Over the years, the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks have continued to embody the spirit of their nickname through their fierce determination and tenacity on the field. The hawk is known for its agility, strength, and keen vision, all of which are qualities that the university's athletes strive to embody. The Hawks have had numerous successes in various sports, including basketball, baseball, and track and field, earning them a reputation as a formidable opponent in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The nickname has become synonymous with the university and has been embraced by fans and players alike, serving as a constant reminder of the team's unwavering spirit and determination.
In addition to their athletic prowess, the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks also have a strong connection to their community and the state of Maryland. The university's location on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay is home to a large population of hawks, making the nickname even more fitting. The Hawks have become a source of pride for the state, and their success on the field has brought recognition and respect to the university. The origins of their nickname may have been a simple chant, but it has evolved into a symbol of strength, unity, and pride for the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks and their fans.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1969
- 2015
- 2022
-
NAIA Tournament Success
The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks men’s basketball team competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Hawks have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament one time in 1974. They have appeared in the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament one time in 2015. The Hawks have appeared in The Basketball Classic one time in 2022. The Hawks have appeared in the NAIA Tournament seven ... -
MEAC Finalist
The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks women’s basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. Maryland Eastern Shore began play in 1981, with their transition to Division I happening during the 1981–82 season. They have never won the MEAC title, though they reached the Final in 2015, losing to Savannah State. -
Merged MEAC Into NEC
The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks baseball team competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division I and is a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC). Through the 2022 season, the Hawks had competed in the school’s full-time home of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), but after that season, the MEAC merged its baseball league into that of the NEC.
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 Hawks
As a dedicated fan of the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks, it is important to understand the rich history of our beloved sports team. The Hawks have a long-standing tradition of excellence, dating back to their founding in 1886. The team has competed in a variety of sports, including basketball, baseball, and track and field, consistently showcasing their talent and determination on the field.
One of the most notable moments in the Hawks' history was their appearance in the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament in 1974. This was the first time a historically black college or university had ever qualified for the tournament. Led by legendary coach John Bates, the Hawks made a strong showing, defeating the University of Alcorn State in the first round before ultimately falling to the University of Virginia in the second round. This historic achievement put the Hawks on the map and solidified their place in college basketball history.
In addition to their success on the court, the Hawks have also produced numerous talented athletes who have gone on to have successful professional careers. This includes former NBA players such as Joe Pace and Kevin Jones, as well as track and field Olympians such as Francena McCorory and Lennox Miller. The Hawks' legacy of producing top-tier athletes continues to this day, with current players making their mark on the college sports scene. As a fan, I am proud to support a team with such a rich history and look forward to seeing what the future holds for the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks.
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