Washburn University Varsity Athletics and Championship History
Washburn University maintains a robust tradition of intercollegiate athletics, fielding a diverse array of varsity teams that compete at a high level. Known for their competitive spirit, the Ichabods participate in 16 different varsity sports, balancing a comprehensive offering for both men and women.
The university's athletic program is designed to foster excellence both on the field and in the classroom, spanning a wide variety of disciplines from court sports to track and field events.
Key Facts
- 16 varsity sports are offered in total across men's and women's programs.
- The men's basketball team holds both AAU and NAIA national championships.
- The women's basketball team captured an NCAA Division II National Championship.
- The football program has secured 8 conference championships since its inception in 1891.
Comprehensive Varsity Sports Offerings
Washburn provides a balanced athletic portfolio, ensuring students have numerous opportunities to compete. The sports are divided as follows:
Men's Varsity Sports
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cross country
- Football
- Golf
- Tennis
- Track & field (Indoor and Outdoor)
Women's Varsity Sports
- Basketball
- Cross country
- Soccer
- Softball
- Tennis
- Track & field (Indoor and Outdoor)
- Volleyball
The following table provides a quick reference for the sports offered at the university:
| Category | Sports Offered |
|---|---|
| Men's Sports | Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Tennis, Track & Field |
| Women's Sports | Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball |
Basketball Legacy
Basketball stands as one of the most decorated programs at Washburn, with significant achievements across both the men's and women's teams.
Men's Basketball
The men's program has a storied history of national success. In 1925, Washburn won the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) National Championship after winning five consecutive games, culminating in a 34–11 victory over the St. Phillips Athletic Club. This achievement made Washburn the fourth school to ever claim an AAU title. Later, in 1987, the team secured the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) national championship at Kemper Arena in Kansas City, defeating West Virginia State with a score of 79–77.
Women's Basketball
The women's program reached a historic peak under the leadership of coach Ron McHenry, who served from 2000 to 2022. The Ichabods achieved a school-record 35–2 season, which led to the NCAA Women's Division II Basketball National Championship after a 70–53 win over Seattle Pacific University.
Football Tradition
Washburn football dates back to 1891, beginning with a challenging inaugural season of 1 win and 4 losses. The program saw early success in 1907 under coach Garfield Weede, when the team went undefeated (8–0) to become champions of the Kansas Conference, which was the precursor to the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Over its long history, the football program has won a total of 8 conference championships. Since 2002, the team has been led by head coach Craig Schurig, who guided the Ichabods to a victory in the 2004 Mineral Water Bowl.
The program's legacy has been shaped by several notable coaches, including John H. Outland, Garfield Weede, Bert Kennedy, Dick Godlove, Ellis Rainsberger, Harold "Bud" Elliott, and Tony DeMeo.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many varsity sports does Washburn University offer?
Washburn competes in 16 intercollegiate varsity sports across its men's and women's programs.
Which national championships has the men's basketball team won?
The men's basketball team won the AAU National Championship in 1925 and the NAIA national championship in 1987.
What is the highest achievement of the women's basketball team?
The women's basketball team won the NCAA Women's Division II Basketball National Championship, finishing a record-setting season with 35 wins and 2 losses.
When did the Washburn football program begin?
The football program began playing in 1891.
Who is the current head football coach at Washburn?
Craig Schurig has been the head football coach since the start of the 2002 season.