The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons are recognized for their growing impact in college athletics. With strong traditions in Mastodons basketball and Mastodons baseball, they continue to represent the university with pride. Known for their determination and community spirit, the Mastodons inspire fans and student-athletes alike while building a legacy of sports excellence.
College Sports Established
1864
Location
Fort Wayne, Indiana
College Name
Purdue University Fort Wayne
Collegiate History
2001 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2020 - Present / Horizon League
2007 - 2020 / Summit League
2001 - 2007 / Independent
Nickname
Mastodons - The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons have one of the most unique nicknames in college sports. But do you know where it comes from? The origin story of this mighty moniker is exciting and provides insight into why the team chose to represent themselves with a prehistoric creature.
Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons Origin
It all began when Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) merged with Purdue University in 2018, forming what we now know as Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW). As part of this merger, IPFW’s athletic teams were rebranded as PFW’s Mastodons—a nod to their new home state’s past.
During the Ice Age period, mastodon fossils were discovered many years ago near present-day Allen County in northeastern Indiana. These ancient creatures roamed North America for millions of years before going extinct about 10 thousand years ago due to climate change and human activity; so by choosing “Mastodon” as its nickname, PFW was paying homage not only to its local history but also acknowledging these incredible animals that once lived on our planet long before us!
Today, fans across campus support the Mastodons by wearing purple & white apparel featuring images inspired by these ancient beasts – whether a snarling mastodon head or an illustration depicting them roaming across open plains! We can also find their mascot ‘Donnie The Donton' leading cheers at sporting events or appearing around town at various community activities throughout northeast Indiana - reminding everyone just how proud they are to be part of such a unique tradition like that found here at PFW!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 2001
- 2016
- 2021
- 2023
-
Women’s Division I Transition
The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons women’s basketball team currently competes in the Horizon League. As of the end of the 2015–16 season, they have an all-time record of 433–568. They joined Division I in 2001. The Mastodons made three appearances in the NCAA Division II women’s basketball tournament. They had a combined record of 0–3. -
Summit & Horizon League Title
The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons men’s basketball has been a member of the Horizon League since 2020 (departing from the Summit League after thirteen years) and in 2022 they won the championship title. Their first season in Division I was 2001–02. In 2007, the Mastadons joined the Summit League and won the title in 2016. Before joining NCAA Division I ... -
Horizon League Since 2021
The program’s first season was in 1970, and it has been a member of the NCAA Division I Horizon League since the start of the 2021 season. Its home venue is Mastodon Field, located on Purdue Fort Wayne’s campus. Doug Schreiber is the team’s head coach starting in the 2020 season. Purdue Fort Wayne’s longest tenured head coach was Bobby ... -
Big Ten Club Tournament Champions
The IPFW Club Men’s Ice Hockey Team is in its sixth season as a program and competes in the ACHA’s North Region. IPFW has had recent success finishing in the top 20 in the nation the last three seasons. This past season the Mastodons won the Big Ten Club Tournament championship hosted by Northwestern University. This was a huge win ...
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.
Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons History
The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons have a proud history in college athletics that traces back to 1916, when the school first fielded teams as Indiana State Normal School (ISNS). Over the decades, the athletics program underwent several changes, competing under names like IPFW Athletics and Fort Wayne University. In 2018, the program officially adopted its current identity as the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons, marking a new chapter in its rivalry with teams like the Cleveland State Vikings.
Through the years, the Mastodons basketball program has stood out as one of the most successful sports at the university. The men’s basketball team has secured NCAA Tournament appearances, with standout seasons since the 2017–18 campaign. Their consistent performance in the Horizon League has made them a respected force in Division I basketball.
The Mastodons are not only strong in basketball but also in other sports. Programs such as men’s soccer and volleyball have earned multiple Summit League titles, adding to the athletic prestige of Purdue Fort Wayne. These victories reflect the determination of both student-athletes and coaches, solidifying the Mastodons’ reputation across NCAA athletics.
Baseball also plays an important role in the athletic tradition of Purdue Fort Wayne. The Mastodons baseball program has developed dedicated talent while competing at the Division I level. Though not yet as decorated as basketball, the team continues to grow in strength, adding to the rich sports culture of the university.
Leadership has been a vital part of the Mastodons’ success. Head coach Jon Coffman, who took over the men’s basketball program in 2014, has brought stability and vision to the team. Under his guidance, the Mastodons have built competitive squads capable of challenging well-established programs, raising the profile of Purdue Fort Wayne nationally.
Mastodons Achievements
In recent years, the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons have celebrated many milestones. From memorable basketball victories to the steady progress of Mastodons baseball, each sport contributes to the school’s athletic identity. Their achievements extend beyond wins and championships, highlighting the growth of a once-small program into a respected Division I competitor.
The Mastodons’ accomplishments include NCAA Tournament berths, Summit League championships, and recognition for developing athletes who represent the spirit of perseverance. Whether in Mastodons basketball, Mastodons baseball, or other programs, the teams continue to inspire fans and strengthen the university’s tradition of excellence.
Sports Fan Products
