The Presbyterian Blue Hose represent Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina, with a proud tradition in NCAA athletics. Known for their dedication and resilience, the Presbyterian Blue Hose football and Presbyterian Blue Hose basketball programs have earned respect through years of competition, championships, and notable athletes who have excelled on both conference and national stages.
College Sports Established
1880
Location
Clinton, South Carolina
College Name
Presbyterian College
Collegiate History
2007 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2007 - Present / Big South Conference
Nickname
Blue Hose - The origins of the nickname "Blue Hose" for the Presbyterian College athletic teams can be traced back to the early 1900s. The Presbyterian College, located in Clinton, South Carolina, was originally founded as a women's college in 1880.
Presbyterian Blue Hose Origin
The college's official colors were chosen to be blue and garnet, representing the college's Presbyterian roots and the colors of the Presbyterian Church. However, it wasn't until the early 1900s that the nickname "Blue Hose" was adopted for the college's athletic teams.
The exact origin of the nickname "Blue Hose" is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories. One theory suggests that the nickname came from the blue stockings worn by the college's female students, which were referred to as "hose" at the time. Another theory suggests that the nickname came from the blue uniforms worn by the college's baseball team, which were referred to as "hose" in the early 1900s. Regardless of its exact origin, the nickname "Blue Hose" has become a beloved part of the Presbyterian College community and is proudly displayed on the college's athletic uniforms and merchandise.
Today, the Blue Hose nickname is not only associated with the college's athletic teams, but it also represents the strong sense of community and pride that is deeply ingrained in the Presbyterian College culture. The nickname serves as a reminder of the college's history and heritage, and it continues to unite students, alumni, and fans in support of the Blue Hose teams. From its humble beginnings as a women's college to its current status as a co-educational institution, the Presbyterian College Blue Hose have remained a symbol of strength, determination, and perseverance, both on and off the field.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
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Presbyterian Blue Hose History
The Presbyterian Blue Hose have a long and storied tradition in NCAA athletics dating back to the late 19th century, especially in their rivalry with the Longwood Lancers. Originally called the “Presbyterian College Eleven,” the school fielded its first Presbyterian Blue Hose football team in 1893 against Furman University. Over the decades the program expanded, with the college competing successfully in football, basketball, baseball, golf, and other sports. Many standout athletes from the Presbyterian Blue Hose have gone on to play professionally, showcasing the strength of the program.
One of the defining moments in Presbyterian Blue Hose football history came in 2007, when the team captured its first conference championship in more than 50 years. Led by head coach Bobby Bentley, the Blue Hose finished 9-2 and earned a berth in the NCAA Division II playoffs. This achievement was especially significant because the program was transitioning from Division II to Division I FCS at the time, cementing its status as a rising force in college football.
The Presbyterian Blue Hose basketball program has also been a cornerstone of the college’s athletics. Both the men’s and women’s teams have competed in multiple postseason tournaments and earned Big South Conference recognition since joining the league in 2007. The men’s team has recorded several winning seasons highlighted by strong defensive play, while the women’s team has produced all-conference standouts and posted impressive home-court records. These accomplishments have made Presbyterian Blue Hose basketball an essential part of the school’s sports identity.
Beyond wins and titles, the Presbyterian Blue Hose are known for their commitment to sportsmanship and academics. Student-athletes consistently post high graduation rates, and numerous players from Presbyterian Blue Hose football and Presbyterian Blue Hose basketball have been named to academic honor rolls. The teams also engage in community service projects throughout the year, reflecting the college’s values and building strong connections with fans.
Blue Hose Achievements
In recent years, the Presbyterian Blue Hose have continued to expand their athletic achievements. The baseball program earned a historic NCAA Regional berth in 2021, while Presbyterian Blue Hose football recorded signature wins against ranked opponents in FCS play. Meanwhile, Presbyterian Blue Hose basketball has developed competitive non-conference schedules and produced players who earned professional contracts overseas.
Today, the Presbyterian Blue Hose stand as one of the most respected programs in the Big South Conference. With a proud history in football, basketball, and other sports, plus a reputation for academic and community excellence, the program embodies the true spirit of collegiate athletics and continues to inspire students, alumni, and fans alike.
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