College Sports Established
1839
Location
Lexington, Virginia
College Name
Virginia Military Institute
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division I
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1922 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
1924 - 2003, 2014 - Present / Southern Conference
1918 - 1921 / South Atlantic Intercollegiate Athletic Association
1906 - 1918, 1921 - 1924 / Independent
1900 - 1906 / Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Nickname
Keydets - As a die-hard fan of the Virginia Military Institute's sports teams, I've always been proud to cheer for the "Keydets." This unique nickname is deeply rooted in the institute's history and tradition, and knowing its origins only adds to my appreciation for our sports teams.
The term "Keydet" is a phonetic spelling of the word "cadet," which is what the students at the Virginia Military Institute are called. The nickname originated from the southern drawl that was, and still is, common among many students and staff at the institute. When pronounced with this accent, "cadet" sounds more like "Keydet." The athletics department soon adopted this affectionate moniker, which has been used ever since.
This nickname is synonymous with VMI's values: discipline, honor, and a strong work ethic. Every time our athletes take the field or court as the "Keydets," they carry the pride and tradition of a historic institution. It's a constant reminder of the commitment to excellence that every VMI student is expected to uphold in academics and athletics.
As a fan, I find the nickname "Keydets" incredibly endearing. Like our institution, it's unique and sets us apart from other teams. Whenever I hear the rallying cry, "Go, Keydets!" I'm reminded of all the fantastic moments I've witnessed in VMI sports history. It's a name that represents our teams and embodies the spirit of our entire community.
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Hockey 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1976
- 1993
- 2020
-
VMI Basketball’s Historic 1976 Elite Eight Run
The VMI Keydets basketball team competes in the Southern Conference of the NCAA Division I. They have played their home games in Cameron Hall since 1981. VMI has played basketball since 1908, and had played in the Southern Conference (SoCon) until 2003, when they moved to the Big South. VMI rejoined the SoCon on July 1, 2014. The Keydets have ... -
Chasing the Elusive NCAA Tournament Berth
The VMI Keydets baseball team is a member of the Southern Conference, which is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division I. VMI’s first baseball team was fielded in 1866. Despite having many winning seasons throughout the 20th century and into the last decade, the Keydets have never been able to make the NCAA tournament. The 1993 team came ... -
A Return to Glory with the 2020 SoCon Championship
The VMI Keydets football team compete in the Southern Conference of the NCAA Division I FCS. The Keydets achieved their first non-losing seasons since 1981 in 2002 and 2003 and their first winning season since 1981 (and a Southern Conference championship) in 2020. Today, VMI’s biggest rival is The Citadel, as the two teams have battled 72 times. VMI competed ...
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History of the Keydets
The Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Keydets have a rich and storied history in collegiate athletics. The Keydets have displayed the discipline, determination, and resilience that reflect their military roots. Over the years, the Keydets have competed across a range of sports, leaving their mark in each one, and their history is a testament to their enduring spirit.
The origins of the Keydets athletic program date back to the late 19th century, with their first football team fielded in 1873, making them one of the oldest programs in the United States. The Keydets have had periods of notable success in football, including the 1957 and 1977 seasons when they clinched the Southern Conference championships.
Basketball, too, has seen its share of glory days. The VMI Keydets basketball team, established in 1908, has made it to the NCAA Tournament several times. The team's most successful period was during the mid-1970s when they reached the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight in 1976, a feat that remains the highest point in the program's history.
Track and field is another sport where the Keydets have excelled. The VMI track and field program has produced multiple Southern Conference champions and All-Americans. The program's success is a testament to VMI's commitment to fostering excellence in its student-athletes. The history of the VMI Keydets is not just about winning games or championships but about building character, promoting teamwork, and instilling a sense of duty and honor in their athletes - values at the heart of VMI's mission.
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