The Niagara Purple Eagles represent Niagara University with a long history of athletic excellence. From thrilling moments in Niagara Purple Eagles hockey to dominant seasons in Niagara Purple Eagles basketball, the program has become a cornerstone of collegiate competition. Their dedication, teamwork, and spirit continue to define the university’s proud athletic tradition.
College Sports Established
1856
Location
Lewiston, New York
College Name
Niagara University
Collegiate History
1989 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1989 - Present / Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Nickname
Purple Eagles - The nickname "Purple Eagles" for Niagara University's athletic teams is a distinctive and memorable moniker with an interesting origin story tied to the university's identity and location.
Niagara Purple Eagles Origin
The nickname "Purple Eagles" was chosen to create a unique identity for Niagara University's athletic teams. The addition of "Purple" to "Eagles" was specifically to avoid the generic nature of just "Eagles" and to incorporate the school colors, which are purple and white.
The choice of purple is directly tied to the university's official colors, purple and white. This color scheme is prominently featured in the university's branding and athletic uniforms.
The university's location on Monteagle Ridge in Lewiston, New York, played a significant role in the choice of the nickname. "Monteagle" inspired the "Eagles" part of the nickname. The mascot, Monte, embodies this connection by wearing the university's purple and white colors.
The nickname "Purple Eagles" is a unique and memorable representation of Niagara University's athletic teams. It reflects the university's colors and geographical location, creating a strong and distinctive identity for its sports teams. For fans and those interested in more detailed historical records, reaching out to Niagara University's athletic department or alumni association is recommended.
By embracing the "Purple Eagles" nickname, fans and athletes can take pride in a moniker deeply connected to the university's heritage and spirit.
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.
Niagara Purple Eagles History
The Niagara Purple Eagles, representing Niagara University in Lewiston, New York, have built a proud legacy of athletic excellence and school spirit, especially in their long-standing rivalry with the Canisius Golden Griffins. Since their founding, the Niagara Purple Eagles have symbolized determination, teamwork, and pride in collegiate sports.
Founded in 1856 by the Vincentian community, Niagara University began developing its athletic programs in the late 19th century. The nickname “Purple Eagles” was officially adopted in the early 20th century, with purple and white chosen as the school colors to represent courage and integrity. Over time, these values became central to the identity of the Niagara Purple Eagles.
The Niagara Purple Eagles basketball program remains one of the university’s greatest achievements. The men’s team has made several NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted by their 1970 run to the quarterfinals—a historic moment that solidified their status in college basketball. The women’s team has also made its mark by winning multiple MAAC Tournament titles, showcasing their consistency and competitive spirit.
Purple Eagles Achievements
The Niagara Purple Eagles hockey team has achieved notable success as well. In 2000, the men’s hockey team earned national attention by qualifying for the NCAA Tournament and advancing to the Elite Eight, an incredible feat for a smaller program. Since then, the hockey team has continued to compete strongly within the Atlantic Hockey Association, producing talented players who’ve moved on to professional leagues.
Beyond basketball and hockey, the Niagara Purple Eagles excel in sports like soccer, baseball, and lacrosse, where their athletes consistently display skill and sportsmanship. The baseball team has developed a reputation for producing standout players, while the women’s soccer team has earned conference honors and tournament appearances.
Throughout their history, the Niagara Purple Eagles have demonstrated unwavering commitment both on and off the field. Their athletes combine athletic excellence with academic achievement, embodying the true spirit of Niagara University. The program’s dedication to growth, teamwork, and integrity ensures that the Niagara Purple Eagles remain a respected and competitive force in college athletics for generations to come.
Sports Fan Products
