Rowan University’s athletic programs have gained prominence in the realm of collegiate athletics. As a Division I university, Rowan boasts a proud athletic legacy, with student-athletes representing the university at the highest level of competition. Whether you’re a prospective student, a dedicated fan, or simply curious about what makes Rowan’s athletic programs so exceptional, this article will delve into the storied history, impressive facilities, and exceptional achievements that define Rowan University athletics. Stay tuned as we uncover the winning formula that has propelled Rowan’s athletic programs to become a force to be reckoned with.
Division I Athletics at Rowan
Rowan University has a rich history of athletic success, competing at the Division I level in the NCAA. With 19 varsity sports, the university offers a wide range of opportunities for student-athletes to excel in their chosen sports. Rowan’s Division I athletic programs have consistently ranked among the top in the nation, with numerous conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.
Football: A Winning Tradition
Rowan’s football team has a long and storied history, dating back to 1924. The Owls have won multiple conference championships and made several appearances in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs. Several standout players have gone on to successful NFL careers, including Pro Bowl selections Tim Hauck and Bill George.
Basketball: A Force on the Court
The Rowan men’s and women’s basketball teams have both been highly successful in recent years. The men’s team won the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) championship in 2019 and reached the NCAA Tournament. The women’s team has also made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a run to the Sweet Sixteen in 2016.
Prolific Owls: Rowan’s Athletic History
Rowan University has a rich athletic history, with numerous standout athletes who have gone on to professional success. Some of the most notable Rowan alumni include:
Rashard Johnson: NFL Safety
Rashard Johnson played safety for the Owls from 2005 to 2008 and was a two-time All-American. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2009 and went on to play for the Tennessee Titans and Oakland Raiders. Johnson was a key contributor on the Cardinals’ Super Bowl XLIII team.
Jennifer Croce: Softball Star
Jennifer Croce played softball for the Owls from 1997 to 2000 and was a two-time All-American. She was the 1999 NCAA Division II National Player of the Year and led the Owls to two national championships. Croce went on to play professionally for the Akron Racers and was inducted into the National Softball Hall of Fame in 2016.
The Home of Champions: Rowan’s Athletic Facilities
Rowan University boasts state-of-the-art athletic facilities that provide student-athletes with the resources they need to succeed. These facilities include:
Harold E. Stanger Sports and Recreation Center
The Stanger Sports and Recreation Center is a 125,000-square-foot facility that houses a gymnasium, fitness center, swimming pool, and indoor track. It is the home of Rowan’s basketball, volleyball, and indoor track teams.
Rowan University Baseball Stadium
The Rowan University Baseball Stadium is a 1,500-seat facility that is the home of the Owls’ baseball team. It features a modern press box, concessions, and a state-of-the-art video scoreboard.
Meet the Owls: Rowan’s Varsity Teams
Rowan University fields 19 varsity sports teams, competing in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC). The Owls’ varsity teams include:
Football
The Rowan football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The Owls have a long history of success, with multiple conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.
Basketball
The Rowan men’s and women’s basketball teams compete in the NCAA Division I and the NJAC. The men’s team has won multiple NJAC championships and made several NCAA Tournament appearances, while the women’s team has also made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
Beyond the Field: Rowan’s Athletic Academics
Rowan University is committed to providing its student-athletes with a well-rounded education. The university offers a variety of academic support services to help student-athletes succeed in the classroom, including:
The Student-Athlete Success Center
The Student-Athlete Success Center provides academic advising, tutoring, and other support services to student-athletes. The center helps student-athletes develop time management skills, study habits, and other strategies for academic success.
The Tutoring Center
The Tutoring Center offers free tutoring services to all Rowan University students, including student-athletes. The center provides tutoring in a variety of subjects, including math, science, and writing.
The Winning Edge: Rowan’s Coaching Staff
Rowan University’s athletic programs are led by a dedicated and experienced coaching staff. The coaches have a combined decades of experience and are committed to helping student-athletes reach their full potential.
Football Coach: Jay Accorsi
Jay Accorsi is the head coach of the Rowan football team. He has been with the program for over 20 years and has led the Owls to multiple conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Accorsi is known for his innovative offensive schemes and his ability to develop young players.
Basketball Coach: Joe Crispin
Joe Crispin is the head coach of the Rowan men’s basketball team. He has been with the program for over 10 years and has led the Owls to multiple NJAC championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Crispin is known for his up-tempo style of play and his ability to motivate his players.
Success Off the Court: Rowan’s Student-Athletes
Rowan University’s student-athletes are not only successful on the field, but they also excel in the classroom. Many Rowan student-athletes maintain high GPAs and are involved in a variety of extracurricular activities.
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a student-run organization that represents the interests of Rowan’s student-athletes. SAAC provides a voice for student-athletes in university decision-making and organizes community service events.
Community Service
Rowan student-athletes are actively involved in giving back to their community
