The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks have built a rich history in collegiate athletics, representing the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with pride. Known for their determination and sportsmanship, the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks basketball program has become one of the university’s standout teams, earning recognition for its success within the competitive Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
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."
Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks Origin
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.
Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks History
The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks have a proud and storied tradition in collegiate athletics, representing the University of Maryland Eastern Shore since its founding in 1886. Known for their rivalry with the Norfolk State Spartans, the Hawks have built a legacy of success in multiple sports, including Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks basketball, baseball, and track and field. Their consistent performances have made them one of the most respected programs in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
The most defining moment in Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks basketball history came in 1974 when the team made its first NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament appearance. This milestone marked the first time a historically black college or university qualified for the tournament. Under the leadership of head coach John Bates, the Hawks captured national attention by defeating Alcorn State before facing the University of Virginia in the next round. This achievement established the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks as a symbol of perseverance and progress in collegiate sports.
Throughout the years, the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks have produced exceptional athletes across various sports. Basketball legends like Joe Pace, who later played in the NBA, and Kevin Jones, along with Olympic track and field stars Francena McCorory and Lennox Miller, all began their journeys with the Hawks. Their accomplishments continue to reflect the strength of the university’s athletic tradition and its ability to develop world-class talent.
Hawks Achievements
In recent years, Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks basketball has continued to grow, focusing on developing student-athletes both academically and athletically. The program’s commitment to excellence has resulted in several competitive seasons within the MEAC, showcasing the team’s resilience and determination.
The Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks continue to honor their history while striving for future success. With a strong foundation, loyal fan support, and talented athletes, the Hawks remain one of the standout programs in HBCU sports. Their legacy, built on hard work and pride, ensures that the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks will continue to soar for generations to come.
