Hartwick College Hawks Football Tickets

Hartwick College is a Division III school located in Oneonta, New York. The Hawks football team competes in the Empire 8 Conference and has been a part of Hartwick athletics since the early 1900s.

While Division III football does not have the same level of national attention or resources as its Division I counterparts, it still offers an exciting and competitive environment for players and fans alike.

One of the key advantages of Division III football is that it prioritizes the academic and personal development of student-athletes over their athletic abilities. Unlike in Division I, there are no athletic scholarships at the Division III level, which means that players are not stuck in a system where they must prioritize football over their studies.

This emphasis on academics is particularly important at Hartwick, where the college’s motto is “To educate sound minds and good hearts.” The Hawks football team had a team GPA of 3.07 during the Fall semester of 2020, indicating that they are succeeding both on the field and in the classroom.

Despite playing at the Division III level, the Hartwick Hawks have a proud football tradition. The program has produced a number of notable players over the years, including NFL quarterback Jason Boltus, who played for the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins.

In recent years, the Hawks have struggled to find consistent success on the field. However, they have shown glimpses of potential, including a 5-5 record in 2018 and an electrifying 62-55 win over Utica College in 2019.

The challenges of competing at the Division III level also come with some unique benefits. For example, Division III football players are often more versatile and well-rounded than their Division I counterparts. They may play multiple positions on the field or be involved in other aspects of campus life beyond their football careers.

Additionally, because Division III football does not offer scholarships, it attracts players who are passionate about the sport and want to continue playing at the college level regardless of the potential financial rewards. This passion can lead to a strong sense of camaraderie and team spirit among players, coaches, and fans.

In conclusion, while Division III football may not have the same media attention or funding as its higher division counterparts, it still provides a great opportunity for student-athletes to compete at a high level while pursuing their academic goals. The Hartwick Hawks football program is an example of the unique benefits and challenges associated with playing at the Division III level, and they continue to represent the best of what college football has to offer.