College Sports Established
1833
Location
Macon, Georgia
College Name
Mercer University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1922 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
2014 - Present / Southern Conference
1978 - 2014 / Atlantic Sun Conference
1930 - 1942, 1948 - 1954 / Dixie Conference
1896 - 1937 / Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Nickname
Bears - As a dedicated Mercer Bears fan, I'm thrilled to share the origins of our beloved nickname. Before 1924, Mercer University's teams were known as the "Baptists," reflecting the university's founding by the Georgia Baptist Convention in 1833. However, the nickname "Bears" has a more dynamic origin tied to a legendary moment in Mercer athletics.
The story dates back to a historic football game in 1892. During this game, Mercer faced the University of Georgia. A powerful Mercer lineman charged down the field with such force that a spectator exclaimed, "Whence cometh that bear?" This spontaneous outburst captured the player's strength and determination, and the nickname "Bears" began to resonate.
In 1924, the student body officially adopted "Bears" as the nickname for Mercer’s athletic teams. This marked a significant shift as the university embraced an identity symbolizing power, courage, and resilience. The bear became a fitting emblem of Mercer’s commitment to overcoming challenges and achieving excellence.
The Mercer Bears nickname embodies the spirit of strength, unity, and determination. It reflects the enduring legacy of a university that has faced challenges with courage and emerged stronger. As a proud fan, I am honored to cheer for the Mercer Bears, knowing that each roar echoes the timeless qualities that define our community. Go Bears!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1985
- 2013
- 2014
- 2023
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Rising to the Challenge: Mercer Bears Milestones in Women’s Basketball
The Mercer Bears women’s basketball team currently competes in the Southern Conference. In 2013, Mercer advanced to the post-season Women’s Basketball Invitational losing to McNeese State University; the team finished the season with a 20–12 record, the first 20-win season since 1991–92. The post-season appearance was Mercer’s first in a nationally sponsored tournament since 1985. Mercer played in the conference ... -
Dominating Mercer’s: Record-Breaking Championship Run
The Mercer Bears baseball team competes in the NCAA Division I and is a member of the Southern Conference. Mercer fielded its first baseball team in 1871. In recent years, Mercer has won five Atlantic Sun Conference championships including the university’s first regular season title in 2013. Since the program began in 1871, ten Mercer players have advanced to the ... -
Mercer Bears in the Big Dance: NCAA Tournament Highlights
The Mercer Bears men’s basketball team competes in the Southern Conference. Mercer has competed in the NCAA tournament three times, including 1981 and 1985; the team lost in the first round in both years. The Bears won the 2012 CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament, defeating Utah State in the championship game; the victory was the first postseason championship won by a team ... -
Playoff Milestone: Mercer Bears in the FCS Spotlight
The Mercer Bears football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and is a member of the Southern Conference. The team plays its home games at the 10,200-seat Five Star Stadium on the university’s Macon campus. The Bears compete in the Southern Conference (SoCon) of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Mercer fielded their ...
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History of the Bears
Founded in 1833, Mercer University has always valued athletic excellence. The early years saw informal, student-organized sports activities. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mercer began formalizing its athletic programs, setting the stage for future success.
1924, Mercer officially adopted the "Bears" nickname, inspired by a legendary football game in 1892. A spectator’s exclamation, "Whence cometh that bear?" during a game against Georgia, captured the strength and tenacity of Mercer athletes, solidifying the bear as a fitting emblem.
Football has been central to Mercer’s athletic identity. The program began in 1892, faced a hiatus from 1942 to 2013, and was revived with renewed vigor. The team’s return highlighted Mercer’s resilience and determination.
Mercer’s basketball program, established in 1906, boasts multiple conference championships and NCAA appearances. The men's team's 2014 victory over Duke in the NCAA tournament was a landmark moment. The women’s team, founded in 1970, has also achieved significant success, reflecting Mercer’s commitment to athletic excellence.
Mercer’s baseball program has a long tradition of success, with numerous conference championships and NCAA appearances. The program’s commitment to excellence is evident in its state-of-the-art facilities and the development of professional players.
Mercer student-athletes consistently excel academically, reflecting the university’s emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals. This dual commitment to academics and athletics is a cornerstone of Mercer’s identity.
The Mercer Bears' history is a testament to the university’s enduring commitment to excellence, resilience, and growth. As the Bears continue to build on their rich legacy, they inspire future generations of student-athletes and fans. Go Bears!
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