Houghton University has long embraced athletics and competitive sports as part of the educational experience of the young people whose lives are shaped by their time here. For many years, students enjoyed “Purple and Gold” intramural competition; even today, older alumni will wear “their color” at chapter meetings and Homecoming. In 1967, the university developed its first intercollegiate teams an
d quickly established a reputation for excellent play. Coach Doug Burke led the early men’s soccer team, retiring in 1993 with a spot in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics’ (NAIA) Soccer Hall of Fame. The Highlanders, nicknamed for the rolling hills in the Houghton area, added sports through the years and now support 17 varsity teams in baseball, basketball (M&W), cross country (M&W), field hockey, soccer (M&W), softball, tennis (M&W), indoor and outdoor track and field (M&W) and volleyball (M&W). The Highlanders have earned a reputation for achievements both in the arena of play—with more than 40 appearances in NAIA national tournaments—and in the classroom, with teams and athletes regularly recognized for academic achievement on the the conference and national level. The athletics programs began a new chapter in their history in 2010 by applying for NCAA Division III membership and becoming a full member in 2016. The teams use their commitment to excellence, both athletically and scholarly, as a platform for their strong and unique emphasis on sports ministry. Houghton coaches and student-athletes are working together to change the culture of sport and to change our culture through sport. Their goal is to make a positive impact on those they play with, those they play against, and those they play in front of. Today the athletic department operates under a mission that states:
“It is the mission of the Houghton University Athletics Department to glorify God by educating and developing men and women leaders who compete with excellence, lead by character, and exemplify Jesus Christ in our world.”
Community Management Policy: Houghton University has the right to reproduce, distribute, publish and display content submitted to our official page. Please note that any combative, dishonest, or vulgar/profane posts may be removed. Personal attacks on individuals will not be tolerated. Repeated violations may result in the offender being banned from the conversation. In order for us to better address your concerns and to consistently track conversations, all requests for assistance should be sent to [email protected], rather than being made on this or any social media platform. This ensures that changes to the platform will not affect your correspondence.
