The Providence Friars hold a celebrated place in NCAA sports with achievements across multiple programs. Known for their championship-caliber Providence Friars ice hockey teams and competitive Providence Friars soccer squads, the university has built a reputation for excellence. Decades of success on the field and ice make Providence a consistent leader in college athletics.
College Sports Established
1921
Location
Providence, Rhode Island
College Name
Providence College
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1979 - Present / Big East Conference
1921 – 1979 / Independent
Nickname
Friars - For sports fans, the Providence Friars is a name that carries a lot of weight. As one of the most successful NCAA basketball teams in history, they have earned their place as an icon within college athletics. But where did this famous nickname come from? Let's look at some theories behind its origin and explore how it has become so well-known today.
Providence Friars Origin
The first theory dates back to when the team was founded in 1917 by Father James McElroy and Brother Paul Fitzgerald, two St Mary’s Church members located on College Hill near Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island – thus giving them their original moniker: The St Mary’s Friars. This name stuck with them until 1924 when they changed it to “Friars” due to increasing popularity among local fans who were attracted by their winning record since joining Division I play five years prior (1919).
From there, things started taking off for “the Friar Nation” as more people began recognizing them throughout New England and beyond – leading up to what we know now as one of America's premier collegiate basketball programs! So why exactly does this nickname carry such weight? Well, aside from being associated with success on the court/field over time, many points out that friary culture embody values like hard work & dedication, which are essential components needed for any championship run - something these players understand all too well after decades worth of experience playing together under Coach Ed Cooley (since 2011).
Overall, while no definitive answer exists regarding where exactly "Providence Friars" came from - we can safely assume that its origins lie somewhere between religious ties & strong beliefs about working hard towards victory each season! With such an impressive legacy already established, though, only time will tell if future generations will continue upholding these traditions or find new ways themselves...
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1926
- 1961
- 1973
- 1981
- 2013
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The men’s basketball team plays its first season
In 1926: The men’s basketball team plays its first season under coach Archie Golembeski. -
basketball team reaches the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament
In 1961: The men’s basketball team reaches the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament for the first time, losing to Ohio State in the semifinals. -
The Magician from Providence Ernie DiGregorio
DiGregorio played on the 1968 Rhode Island (Class B) champions at North Providence High School. He and Marvin Barnes led Coach Dave Gavitt’s Providence team to a Final Four appearance in the 1973 NCAA Tournament in DiGregorio’s senior season, where they eventually lost to Memphis State, but only after Barnes sustained a knee injury that forced an early exit. After ... -
The men’s soccer team plays its first season under coach Bill Doyle
In 1981: The men’s soccer team plays its first season under coach Bill Doyle. Providence men’s soccer team played its first season under coach Bill Doyle in 1981. Providence was an independent team and did not belong to any conference. Providence finished the season with a 10-5-2 record and qualified for the NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Tournament for the ... -
2013 – The men’s soccer team reaches the College Cup (Final Four) of the NCAA Tournament
In 2013: The men’s soccer team reaches the College Cup (Final Four) of the NCAA Tournament for the first time, losing to UCLA in penalty kicks in the national semifinals.
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.
Providence Friars History
The Providence Friars have a long and storied history in NCAA sports, especially known for their fierce rivalry with the St. John’s Red Storm. As original members of the Big East Conference, the Friars have been part of some of the most memorable moments in college basketball history. With multiple Providence Friars basketball Final Four appearances, numerous conference championships, and NBA alumni like Alonzo Mourning and Austin Croshere, the program has built a lasting legacy.
Since their first season in 1979-80, the Providence Friars have been synonymous with competitive excellence and dedication. Legendary coaches like Dave Gavitt laid the foundation for a culture of hard work, while current head coach Ed Cooley has continued that tradition. This dedication has fueled the team’s success both on the court and off, creating one of the most respected programs in the Big East Conference.
The Providence Friars basketball program achieved historic milestones under Coach Cooley, including back-to-back Big East Tournament Championships and three consecutive regular-season titles from 2013–2015. These accomplishments were especially remarkable given that the team was often picked near the bottom of preseason rankings. The Friars’ resilience and teamwork have made them a model program in college basketball.
Beyond basketball, the Providence Friars also excel in other sports. The Providence Friars ice hockey team has consistently competed at a high level in NCAA tournaments, producing professional players and maintaining a strong presence in collegiate hockey. Similarly, the Providence Friars soccer teams have earned multiple conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances, demonstrating the university’s commitment to all-around athletic excellence.
Friars Achievements
Throughout its history, Providence has produced numerous standout student-athletes, like Kris Dunn, who balanced academics and athletics while advancing to the NBA. The program emphasizes both personal development and athletic achievement, helping athletes succeed in life beyond college. Alumni, fans, and students alike continue to celebrate the Friars’ legacy of teamwork, passion, and perseverance.
Today, the Providence Friars remain a respected force across all sports, with strong programs in basketball, ice hockey, and soccer. Their consistent success in the Big East Conference, combined with a commitment to developing student-athletes, ensures that Providence will continue to be a powerhouse in NCAA athletics for years to come.
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