
College Sports Established
1872
Location
Jersey City, New Jersey
College Name
Saint Peter's University
Collegiate History
1981 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1981- Present / Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Nickname
Peacocks - As a fan of Saint Peter's Peacocks, I'm sure you're curious about the origins of our unique nickname. The story behind it is as colorful and vibrant as the peacock itself!
Rev. Gannon chose the peacock as the mascot for Saint Peter's University when the college was reborn in 1930. In myth, the peacock is known to be committed to the flames of a funeral pyre and then reborn more beautifully than before. This symbol of resurrection and eternal life resonated with the spirit of Saint Peter's College, which was reborn and better than before.
Another fascinating aspect of the peacock choice is its connection to the school's location. Saint Peter's University is situated within Hudson County, which used to be known as "Pavonia," a Latin phrase that translates to "Land of the Peacock." This name was given due to the influence of Michael Reniersz de Pauw, a Dutch colonist and the Lord of Achienhoven, Holland, who secured the land in the 17th century.
So, the peacock symbolizes the spirit of resurrection and eternal life and ties the college to the settling of Jersey City, known initially as Pavonia, or Land of the Peacock. This unique blend of symbolism and local history makes our nickname truly special.
As a fan, you're part of this rich history and the vibrant spirit of the Peacocks. Let's continue to cheer on our teams and uphold the legacy of Saint Peter's University!
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.
History of the Peacocks
Saint Peter's University, nestled in the bustling city of Jersey City, New Jersey, has fostered a vibrant athletics culture since its establishment in 1872. In 1930, the university adopted the unique moniker 'Peacocks,' symbolizing resurrection and rebirth—a fitting emblem for a sports program that has continually risen from challenges to achieve new heights.
The Peacocks' athletic program is as diverse as it is successful, encompassing both men's and women's teams in sports like basketball, soccer, golf, and track and field. Each team carries its unique history within the broader narrative of Saint Peter's athletics.
For example, the men's basketball team has been a cornerstone of the Peacocks' sports program. The team has made its mark on the national stage with consistent appearances in the NCAA Tournament and several MAAC Championships. Their 2022 Cinderella run to the Elite Eight remains one of the most remarkable moments in the university's sports history.
The women's soccer team has also made significant strides, proving their mettle in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). Their progress reflects the university's commitment to providing equal opportunities for female athletes.
The Peacocks' athletic history is not just about the success on the field or court—it's also about the character development, leadership, and community spirit fostered through sports. The university's athletic program has produced not only skilled athletes but also well-rounded individuals who carry the Peacock spirit beyond the university's borders.
In conclusion, Saint Peter's Peacocks' sports history is a testament to the resilience, hard work, and commitment of its athletes, coaches, and supporting community. It's a narrative that continues to unfold, adding new chapters of triumph and growth with each passing season. As the Peacocks continue to spread their wings, their history stands as a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path to future athletic excellence.