The UC Davis Aggies have built a strong tradition in NCAA athletics, competing across multiple sports with lasting achievements. Programs like UC Davis Aggies football and UC Davis Aggies baseball have created a winning culture that continues to inspire. Their commitment to excellence has made UC Davis a respected name in college sports history.
College Sports Established
1908
Location
Davis, California
College Name
University of California, Davis
Collegiate History
2004 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1910 - 2004 / Division II
Conference History
2007 - Present / Big West Conference
2004 - 2007 / Independent
Nickname
Aggies - Sports fans, have you ever wondered why the UC Davis Aggies are called “Aggies”? It turns out that this nickname has a long and exciting history. The name's origins can be traced back to when UC Davis was known as the University Farm in 1908. At that time, students were referred to as "farmers" or "aggies," eventually becoming their official nickname by 1921.
UC Davis Aggies Origin
The term “aggie” is derived from agricultural education and was used by those who studied it at land grant universities like UC Davis. In addition, many of these same universities had an agricultural college or department where students could learn about farming techniques such as crop rotation and animal husbandry - hence why they were often referred to collectively as “agriculturalists” or, more commonly today, simply “Aggies."
Today, being an Aggie means much more than just having a connection with agriculture; it also stands for excellence both on and off the field! The university's athletic teams proudly wear blue-and-gold uniforms adorned with their mascot—a Mustang named Gunrock—as they compete against other NCAA schools across California (and beyond). As one of only two Division I programs in Northern California (the other being Stanford), UCD Athletics has established itself among some elite companies over its storied history!
So now you know: when someone calls themselves an Aggie from UC Davis, they aren't just referring to their school colors but rather honoring a proud tradition steeped in hard work and dedication – something every sports fan should appreciate!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1966
- 1970
- 2004
- 2010
- 2016
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UC Davis Aggies football team wins their first Far Western Conference championship
In 1966, the UC Davis Aggies football team won their first Far Western Conference championship, finishing with a record of 7-2. Led by head coach Jim Sochor, the team featured a potent offense that scored 265 points in nine games, an average of nearly 30 points per game. The Aggies started the season with a convincing 37-6 victory over Pacific, ... -
UC Davis Aggies men’s soccer team wins their first NCAA Division II championship
In 1970, the UC Davis Aggies men’s soccer team won their first NCAA Division II championship, becoming the first team in school history to win a national title. Led by head coach Denny Price, the Aggies finished the season with a record of 13-4-2 and defeated Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in the championship game by a score of 1-0. The ... -
UC Davis Aggies women’s soccer team wins their first Big West Conference championship.
In 2004, the UC Davis Aggies women’s soccer team won their first Big West Conference championship. Led by head coach MaryClaire Robinson, the Aggies finished the season with a record of 14-4-1 and went undefeated in conference play with a record of 7-0-1. The team was anchored by a strong defense that only allowed 12 goals all season and was ... -
UC Davis Aggies women’s basketball team wins their first Big West Conference championship
In 2010: UC Davis Aggies women’s basketball team wins their first Big West Conference championship. -
Eddie Vanderdoes Football Player
Eddie Vanderdoes (2013-2016): Vanderdoes played football for the Aggies from 2013-2016, and was a dominant defensive lineman. He was selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, and has also played for the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans.
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.
UC Davis Aggies History
The UC Davis Aggies have built a proud and competitive tradition in NCAA athletics, with historic rivalries such as the one against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos. Since their first NCAA appearance in 1976, the Aggies have shown determination and consistency across multiple sports, including UC Davis Aggies football and UC Davis Aggies baseball, making them one of the most respected programs in college sports.
The UC Davis Aggies football program began competing at the NCAA level in 1976 as a Division II member. Success came quickly, with four straight conference titles from 1977 to 1980. The program later moved to Division I-AA (now FCS) in 1981, where they established themselves as a strong contender by capturing additional championships in 1985 and 1989. Their tradition of dominance laid the foundation for future success at higher levels.
In 2003, UC Davis transitioned again, joining Division I, which elevated both UC Davis Aggies football and other sports to a national stage. This move aligned them with elite California programs such as Fresno State and San Diego State. Since then, Aggies teams have consistently competed in NCAA tournaments and championships, showing their strength across multiple sports while building a loyal fan base.
The UC Davis Aggies baseball program has also made its mark in NCAA history. The Aggies have produced standout players who went on to professional careers, while the team itself has earned respect with competitive showings in the Big West Conference. Their baseball legacy continues to grow, supported by strong recruiting and consistent player development.
Academics remain central to the UC Davis identity. The Aggies take pride in producing well-rounded student-athletes, with multiple Rhodes Scholars and academic All-Americans showcasing the balance of success both on and off the field. This commitment strengthens the university’s reputation for excellence across all areas.
Over the years, the Aggies have captured multiple conference championships across football, basketball, and baseball while making notable NCAA tournament runs. Their UC Davis Aggies football team continues to thrive at the FCS level, and UC Davis Aggies baseball has grown into a respected program with a history of strong performances.
Aggies Achievements
The UC Davis Aggies have earned recognition with more than 30 conference championships across different sports, solidifying their role as a Big West Conference powerhouse. Their football program has reached the FCS playoffs multiple times, while basketball and baseball teams have delivered thrilling seasons with postseason appearances.
Overall, the UC Davis Aggies, whether on the football field, basketball court, or baseball diamond, embody a tradition of perseverance, academic strength, and athletic achievement. Their history highlights why UC Davis remains one of the most respected names in college sports today.
