College Sports Established
1841
Location
Homewood, Alabama
College Name
Samford University
Collegiate History
1989 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2008 - Present / Southern Conference
2003 - 2008 / Ohio Valley Conference
1989 - 2002 / Independent
Nickname
Bulldogs - As a proud Samford Bulldogs fan, the origins of our beloved nickname are steeped in rich history and tradition that reflect the spirit and resilience of our university. The story begins in the early 20th century when Samford University, then known as Howard College, was establishing its identity in the competitive world of collegiate athletics. The choice of "Bulldogs" as our mascot was no accident; it was a deliberate decision that captured our athletes' and student body's tenacity and determination.
The bulldog, known for its strength, courage, and unwavering loyalty, was the perfect symbol to represent our athletic teams. It embodied our athletes' qualities on the field, court, and track—relentless effort, fierce competitiveness, and an unyielding spirit. The nickname "Bulldogs" quickly gained popularity among students, faculty, and fans, becoming a rallying cry that united the community and inspired our teams to strive for excellence.
Over the years, the Samford Bulldogs nickname has become synonymous with a legacy of athletic success and academic achievement. Our teams have proudly worn the Bulldog emblem, competing with heart and integrity in various sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and more. The Bulldog mascot has also evolved, with multiple iterations capturing the spirit of the times while maintaining the core values that define our university. Each generation of Bulldogs has added to the rich tapestry of our history, contributing to a legacy of pride and perseverance.
Today, as we cheer on the Samford Bulldogs, we do so with a deep connection to our past and an unwavering commitment to our future. The nickname "Bulldogs" is more than just a moniker; it symbolizes our collective identity, a testament to our resilience, and a source of inspiration for all who wear red and blue. As fans, we take pride in our heritage and look forward to many more years of Bulldog excellence on and off the field. Go Bulldogs!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1902
- 2011
- 2023
- 2024
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Bulldogs Football: Over a Century of Football Excellence
The Samford Bulldogs football team competes at the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level as a member of the Southern Conference (SoCon). Samford’s first football team was fielded in 1902. The team was known as the Howard Bulldogs through the 1965 season when Howard College was renamed as Samford University. The Bulldogs have won 4 conference championships, with ... -
Samford Bulldogs: A Rising Power in women’s basketball
The Samford Bulldogs women’s basketball team competes in the Southern Conference (SoCon), after leaving the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). The Bulldogs have appeared in two NCAA Tournaments in 2011 & 2012. -
Bulldogs Baseball: A Stepping Stone to the Major Leagues
The Samford Bulldogs baseball team is a member of the Southern Conference, which is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division I. The team plays its home games at Joe Lee Griffin Stadium in Homewood, Alabama. Samford has had 32 Major League Baseball Draft selections since the draft began in 1965. -
Bulldogs basketball: A Storied Journey to the NCAA Tournament
The Samford Bulldogs men’s basketball team currently competes in the Southern Conference. The Bulldogs have appeared three times in the NCAA tournament, most recently in 2024. They have been NCAA Division I since 1972 as an independent, in the Trans-Atlantic Athletic Conference (now ASUN Conference), the Ohio Valley Conference, and presently the Southern Conference. The Bulldogs have appeared in one ...
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History of the Bulldogs
The Samford Bulldogs' sports team history is a rich and dynamic narrative that spans over a century, reflecting the university's growth, resilience, and commitment to athletic excellence. Founded in 1841, Samford University, originally known as Howard College, began its athletic journey in the early 20th century. The transition to the Bulldogs nickname marked the start of a legacy characterized by determination and competitive spirit. The university's athletic programs have evolved significantly, establishing a formidable presence in collegiate sports.
In the early years, Samford's athletic teams competed primarily at the small college level. Football, one of the earliest sports at the university, quickly became a cornerstone of Samford’s athletic identity. The Bulldogs experienced various phases of success, with notable achievements, including conference championships and bowl game appearances. The resilience and tenacity of the football program set the tone for other sports, fostering a culture of perseverance and excellence that remains to this day.
The 1970s and 1980s marked a period of expansion and increased competitiveness for Samford athletics. During this time, the university moved to NCAA Division I status, elevating competition and exposure for its sports teams. The Bulldogs' basketball program gained prominence, with several notable seasons and appearances in national tournaments. The baseball team also flourished, producing professional-level talent and achieving significant milestones, including conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. This era solidified Samford's reputation as a competitive force in collegiate athletics.
Samford's athletic programs have continued to thrive in recent decades, consistently competing at high levels across multiple sports. The Bulldogs have excelled in the Southern Conference, earning numerous titles and accolades. The university's commitment to providing top-notch facilities and resources has been crucial in attracting talented athletes and coaches. Today, Samford Bulldogs' teams are known for their academic and athletic excellence, embodying the university's core values of integrity, perseverance, and community. The future looks bright for Samford athletics, with each new season offering the promise of continued success and the opportunity to build on the proud legacy of the Bulldogs.
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