The Miami RedHawks have established themselves as one of the most respected athletic programs in collegiate sports. Known for success in Miami RedHawks football and Miami RedHawks hockey, the university has produced elite athletes and unforgettable moments. Their long-standing tradition of teamwork and dedication continues to inspire fans across generations.
College Sports Established
1809
Location
Oxford, Ohio
College Name
Miami University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1947 - Present / MAC Conference
1888 - 1947 / Independent
Nickname
RedHawks - The Miami RedHawks are one of the most storied teams in college sports, and their nickname is steeped in history. The name's origins can be traced to a meeting between then-Miami University President Joseph Desha and former Ohio Governor Thomas Worthington in 1809. At this meeting, it was decided that the school would be named "Miami" after an Indian tribe native to southwestern Ohio.
Miami RedHawks Origin
In 1928, Charles Mathers became president of Miami University and wanted to create a mascot for athletic teams at his alma mater. He chose “RedHawks” as a tribute to both Native American culture (in recognition of its namesake) as well as its red uniforms, which had been part of athletics since 1888 when baseball began at Miami U.
Mathers also chose “RedHawks” because he felt it was more dignified than other mascots such as Indians or Braves, which were shared among universities during this period but could have been seen by some people today as offensive or inappropriate. Additionally, the term 'hawk' has traditionally been associated with strength, agility, and courage - all qualities necessary for success on any sports team!
Today, fans across America know what it means to hear someone say, "Go RedHawks!" It's not just about cheering on your favorite team; it's about honoring the rich history behind its name while recognizing all those who came before us and helped make our beloved university what it is today!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1954
- 1993
- 2002
- 2019
-
Miami wins its first MAC football championship
In 1954, the Miami (Ohio) Redhawks football team won its first Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship. Led by head coach Ara Parseghian, the Redhawks finished the season with a record of 8-1, including a perfect 5-0 record in conference play. -
Miami basketball team reaches the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament
In 1993, the Miami (Ohio) Redhawks men’s basketball team made a historic run to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament. Coached by Herb Sendek, the team finished the regular season with a record of 21-8 and earned an at-large bid to the tournament. In the first round, the Redhawks upset second-seeded Arizona, 71-62, behind a strong performance from future ... -
Charlie Coles inducted into the MAC Hall of Fame in 2002
Charlie Coles was the head coach of the Miami (Ohio) Redhawks men’s basketball team from 1996 to 2012, and during his tenure, he led the team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Coles was known for his energetic coaching style and his ability to develop players. Under Coles’ leadership, the Redhawks made six NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet Sixteen run ... -
Miami football team wins the MAC East division
In 2019, the Miami (Ohio) Redhawks football team had a successful season, winning the MAC East division and earning a spot in the MAC Championship Game. The team was coached by Chuck Martin, who had been at the helm of the program since 2014. Miami finished the regular season with a record of 7-5, including a 6-2 record in conference ...
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Miami RedHawks History
The Miami RedHawks have built a remarkable legacy in NCAA Division I athletics since their founding in 1888. Based in Oxford, Ohio, the team proudly competes in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) and maintains a fierce rivalry with the Ohio Bobcats. Over the decades, the Miami RedHawks football and Miami RedHawks hockey programs have become cornerstones of the university’s athletic identity.
In Miami RedHawks football, the team has captured numerous MAC titles and earned national respect for its consistent success. The program, famously known as the “Cradle of Coaches,” has produced several legendary figures such as Bo Schembechler and Ara Parseghian. Their 2003 football season stands out, led by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, when Miami went 13-1 and won the GMAC Bowl against Louisville. That season remains one of the most successful in school history and a defining moment for Miami RedHawks football.
Beyond the gridiron, Miami RedHawks hockey has achieved incredible success on the ice. Competing in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC), the team earned multiple Frozen Four appearances and was the national runner-up in 2009 after an overtime thriller against Boston University. Their continued dominance has made the Miami RedHawks hockey program one of the most respected in the nation, known for producing elite NHL-level talent.
RedHawks Achievements
The university’s passionate fan base plays a huge role in supporting its teams. From the vibrant atmosphere at Yager Stadium to the excitement inside Goggin Ice Center, the spirit of RedHawk Nation shines through. Student groups like “The Red Swarm” and alumni events keep the connection between generations alive, uniting fans of both Miami RedHawks football and Miami RedHawks hockey year after year.
Throughout its long and proud history, the Miami RedHawks have continued to excel across multiple sports. With championship victories, historic rivalries, and a legacy of athletic excellence, Miami University remains one of the premier athletic programs in the Midwest—built on tradition, passion, and unshakable RedHawk pride.
