College Sports Established
1935
Location
Norfolk, Virginia
College Name
Norfolk State University
Collegiate History
1997 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1997 - Present / Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Nickname
Spartans - The Norfolk State Spartans have a rich and storied history that dates back to the early 1900s. The university was founded in 1935 as the Norfolk Unit of Virginia Union University, but it wasn't until 1969 that the school adopted the name Norfolk State College. It wasn't until 1979 that the school officially became known as Norfolk State University. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that the school's athletic teams began to be known as the Spartans.
The origins of the nickname "Spartans" can be traced back to the ancient Greek city-state of Sparta, known for its fierce and disciplined warriors. The name was chosen to represent the strength and determination of the Norfolk State athletic teams. The Spartans have a long-standing tradition of excellence in athletics, with numerous conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. The nickname perfectly embodies the spirit and tenacity of the Norfolk State community, and it has become a source of pride for both the players and the fans.
Today, the Norfolk State Spartans continue to uphold their legacy as fierce competitors in college athletics. The nickname has become synonymous with the university and its athletic programs and is a constant reminder of its history and tradition. As a Spartans fan, I am proud to support a team with such a strong and meaningful nickname, and I am confident that the Spartans will continue to make their mark in the world of sports for years to come.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1991
- 2011
- 2012
- 2021
-
Women Spartans Experiences in Basketball
The Norfolk State Spartans women’s basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. Norfolk State began play in 1974. They competed in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) from 1974 to 1997 before joining Division I and the MEAC in 1997. In their time in Division II, they were champions of the CIAA Tournament in 1975, 1977, 1983, 1986, ... -
Spartans football Promotion
The Norfolk State Spartans football team represents Norfolk State University in Division I FCS college football. The team plays their home games at William “Dick” Price Stadium in Norfolk, Virginia. The Spartans have appeared in four bowl games. They have appeared in the FCS playoffs one time in 2011 with an overall record of 0–1. -
Memorable Start on First NCAA D I
The Norfolk State Spartans men’s basketball team currently competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Spartans men’s basketball team is best known for defeating the #2 seeded Missouri in the 2012 NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament, the first tournament appearance for Norfolk State. It was only the fifth time that a 15th seed has defeated a 2nd seed. Norfolk ... -
Maiden MEAC Tournament Championship
The Norfolk State Spartans 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 Spartans 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. The Spartans ...
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 Spartans
One of Norfolk State Spartan sports history's most notable moments was the men's basketball team's historic upset over the Missouri Tigers in the 2012 NCAA Tournament. As a 15th seed, the Spartans defeated the 2nd seed Tigers, marking the first time in history that a 15th seed had won a game in the tournament. This victory put the Norfolk State Spartans on the national stage and solidified their place in college basketball history. The Spartans have also had success in other sports, including football, where they have won multiple MEAC championships and produced NFL players such as Don Carey and Lynden Trail.
The Norfolk State Spartans have a solid and dedicated fan base known for their unwavering support and passion for their teams. From the early days of the CIAA to their current status in the Big South Conference, the Spartans have always had a loyal following. The university's commitment to providing student-athletes with a well-rounded education and opportunities to excel in athletics has helped to cultivate a culture of excellence and pride among fans. As the Norfolk State Spartans continue to make their mark in collegiate sports, their fans can look back with pride on the team's rich history and look forward to even greater success in the future.
Sports Fan Products
