40 Facts About Dartmouth Football

The Early Years of Dartmouth Football

Dartmouth College has a rich football history that dates back over a century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about the early years of Dartmouth football.

1. Dartmouth's football team was established in 1881, making it one of the oldest college football programs in the United States.
2. The first game played by Dartmouth was against Amherst College on November 17, 1881. Dartmouth lost 4-0.
3. In 1893, Dartmouth joined the Ivy League, a group of eight private colleges known for their academic and athletic excellence.
4. The team’s first coach, William Wurtenburg, led Dartmouth to its first winning season in 1895.
5. Dartmouth's early uniforms were made of heavy wool, which was quite uncomfortable and hot during games.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

Dartmouth football has had its share of unforgettable moments and significant milestones. Here are some highlights.

6. In 1925, Dartmouth went undefeated and was named national champions by several selectors.
7. The team played its first game at Memorial Field in 1923, which remains their home stadium to this day.
8. Dartmouth's first televised game was against Princeton in 1953.
9. In 1962, Dartmouth won its first Ivy League championship under coach Bob Blackman.
10. The team achieved an undefeated season in 1970, finishing with a perfect 9-0 record.

Legendary Coaches and Players

Dartmouth has been home to some legendary coaches and players who have left a lasting impact on the program.

11. Bob Blackman, who coached from 1955 to 1970, is considered one of Dartmouth's greatest coaches, leading the team to seven Ivy League titles.
12. Reggie Williams, a linebacker who played from 1973 to 1975, went on to have a successful NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals.
13. Jay Fiedler, a quarterback for Dartmouth in the early 1990s, later played in the NFL for teams like the Miami Dolphins and Jacksonville Jaguars.
14. Buddy Teevens, who has had two stints as Dartmouth's head coach, is known for his innovative approach to player safety, including the use of robotic tackling dummies.
15. Murry Bowden, a defensive back from the 1970 team, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions are a big part of what makes Dartmouth football special. Here are some key aspects.

16. Dartmouth's biggest rival is Harvard, with the two teams meeting annually since 1882.
17. The Dartmouth-Princeton rivalry is also significant, with the teams playing each other since 1897.
18. The "Keggy the Keg" mascot, introduced in 2003, has become a beloved and quirky symbol of Dartmouth spirit.
19. The team’s fight song, "As the Backs Go Tearing By," is a staple at games and rallies.
20. The tradition of painting the Dartmouth Green with the team's colors before big games dates back decades.

Modern Achievements and Innovations

Dartmouth football continues to evolve, achieving new milestones and embracing innovations in the sport.

21. In 2015, Dartmouth won its first Ivy League title in nearly two decades.
22. The team has been a leader in player safety, using advanced technology to reduce head injuries.
23. Dartmouth's football program has a strong focus on academics, with many players earning academic honors.
24. The team has a state-of-the-art training facility, which includes a high-tech weight room and recovery center.
25. Dartmouth has embraced analytics, using data to improve player performance and game strategy.

Community and Alumni Impact

Dartmouth football has a significant impact on the community and its alumni network.

26. The Friends of Dartmouth Football organization supports the program through fundraising and events.
27. Many Dartmouth football alumni have gone on to successful careers in various fields, including business, law, and medicine.
28. The team participates in community service projects, including youth football clinics and charity events.
29. Dartmouth football games are a major social event on campus, bringing together students, alumni, and fans.
30. The program has a strong network of alumni who mentor current players and help them with career opportunities.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Here are some fun and quirky facts about Dartmouth football that you might not know.

31. The team once played a game in Japan, facing off against the Japanese national team in 1986.
32. Dartmouth's mascot, the Big Green, is one of the few college mascots that isn't an animal or human figure.
33. The team has a tradition of wearing special uniforms for Homecoming games, often featuring throwback designs.
34. Dartmouth football players have appeared in movies and TV shows, including "The Game Plan" and "Friday Night Lights."
35. The team has a unique pre-game ritual where players touch a statue of Robert Frost for good luck.

Records and Statistics

Dartmouth football has set numerous records and achieved impressive statistics over the years.

36. The team holds the Ivy League record for the most consecutive wins, with 22 straight victories from 1969 to 1971.
37. Dartmouth has produced multiple All-Americans, including linebacker Zack Walz and wide receiver Craig Morton.
38. The team has won a total of 19 Ivy League championships, the most in the league's history.
39. Dartmouth's all-time leading rusher is Nick Schwieger, who ran for 3,150 yards from 2008 to 2011.
40. The team’s longest winning streak against a single opponent is 14 games, achieved against Columbia from 1971 to 1984.

Dartmouth Football: A Legacy of Excellence

Dartmouth football has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From its early days in the late 19th century to its modern successes, the team has consistently demonstrated skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. The Big Green's numerous Ivy League titles and standout players highlight the program's commitment to excellence.

Whether it's the storied rivalries, the legendary coaches, or the passionate fanbase, Dartmouth football continues to be a source of pride for the college and its alumni. The team's ability to adapt and thrive over the decades is a testament to its enduring spirit. As we look to the future, there's no doubt that Dartmouth football will continue to inspire and excite fans, both old and new. Here's to many more seasons of thrilling games and unforgettable victories.