40 Facts About Maine Black Bears Football

Source: Goblackbears.com

What makes the Maine Black Bears football program so special? The Maine Black Bears football program, representing the University of Maine, boasts a rich history dating back to 1892. From humble beginnings, the team has grown into a formidable force in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). With 13 conference titles, a storied rivalry with the New Hampshire Wildcats, and a dedicated fan base, the Black Bears have left an indelible mark on college football. Playing home games at Alfond Sports Stadium, the team thrives on community support and a culture of hard work. Notable players like Patrick Ricard have even made their mark in the NFL.

Key Takeaways:

The Maine Black Bears football program has a rich history dating back over a century, with notable achievements, strong community support, and a legacy of developing NFL talent.
From their first season in 1892 to recent playoff appearances, the Black Bears have a vibrant tradition, dedicated home turf, and a beloved mascot, Bananas T. Bear.

Table of Contents

Early Beginnings and Development

The Maine Black Bears football program has a rich history that dates back over a century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its early years and development.

First Season: The team began in 1892, playing a modest two-game season, both ending in losses.
Athletic Director: Samantha Hegmann currently oversees the athletic department.
Head Coach: Jordan Stevens, in his third season, holds a record of 4-18 (.182).

Home Turf and Facilities

The Black Bears have a dedicated home where fans gather to support their team. Here are some details about their stadium and facilities.

Stadiums: Home games are played at Alfond Sports Stadium, which seats 8,419.
Field Name: The field is known as Morse Field and features a FieldTurf surface.
Largest Crowd: The stadium's record attendance was 10,443 against UAlbany in 2016.

Conference and Division

Understanding the competitive landscape of the Black Bears is crucial. They have navigated through various conferences and divisions over the years.

NCAA Division: The team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
Conference: They are members of the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA).
Conference History: Initially part of the Yankee Conference, they transitioned to the Atlantic 10 before joining the CAA in 2007.

Achievements and Records

The Black Bears have a history of notable achievements and records that highlight their competitive spirit.

All-Time Record: The team boasts an all-time record of 571-416-33 (.576).
Playoff Record: In the Division I-AA/FCS Playoffs, they hold a record of 5-8.
Conference Titles: The Black Bears have won 13 conference titles, with the first in 1949 and the latest in 2018.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions are the heart and soul of college football. The Black Bears have their share of both.

Rivalries: One of their main rivals is the New Hampshire Wildcats.
Colors: The team proudly wears Maine blue, white, and navy.
Fight Song: "Maine Stein Song / For Maine" is the anthem that rallies the fans.
Mascot: Bananas T. Bear is the beloved mascot.
Marching Band: The Pride of Maine Black Bear Marching Band adds to the game-day atmosphere.

Playoff Appearances and Bowl Games

The Black Bears have had their moments in the spotlight with playoff appearances and bowl games.

First Playoff Appearance: Their debut in the Division I-AA/FCS Playoffs was in 1987.
Recent Playoff Appearances: In 2018, they reached the semifinals but lost to Eastern Washington, 50-19.
Bowl Game Participation: They played in the 1965 Tangerine Bowl, losing to East Carolina, 31-0.

Coaching Legacy

The coaching staff has played a significant role in shaping the team's success over the years.

Head Coach Jordan Stevens: Stevens took over in December 2021, marking his debut season in 2022.
Historic Coaches: Coaches like Harold Westerman and Ron Rogerson have left lasting legacies.

Player Achievements and NFL Connections

Many Black Bears have gone on to achieve success in the NFL, showcasing the program's ability to develop talent.

Super Bowl Players: Three Black Bears have played in the Super Bowl, including Trevor Bates with the New England Patriots in 2017.
NFL Draft Picks: In the past two decades, 33 players have been picked in the NFL Draft or signed as rookie free agents.
Notable Players: Baltimore Ravens fullback Patrick Ricard has been to the Pro Bowl four times.

Memorable Seasons and Games

Certain seasons and games stand out in the history of the Black Bears, marking significant milestones.

Historic Seasons: The 1951 season was notable for being the program's first undefeated season, going 6-0-1.
First Conference Title: The first conference title was won in 1949.
Recent Opponents: In recent years, the team has faced opponents like Hampton, Monmouth, and Jacksonville State.

Community and Fan Support

The Black Bears enjoy strong community support, which plays a crucial role in their success.

Community Support: Fans attend games in large numbers, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Facility Upgrades: Donations from Harold Alfond and the Morse family have led to significant upgrades.
Team Culture: Built on hard work, dedication, and teamwork, the team's culture is a cornerstone of their success.

Legacy and Impact

The Maine Black Bears football program has a lasting legacy that extends beyond the field.

Legacy: The program is a symbol of pride for the University of Maine and its community.
Championships: While they haven't won a national championship, their conference titles and playoff appearances are significant achievements.
Player Development: The program has a strong track record of developing players who go on to play in the NFL.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Let's wrap up with some fun facts and trivia that add to the charm of the Maine Black Bears football program.

Opponent History: The Black Bears have a long history of competing against teams like Appalachian State and Boston College.
Historic Games: The 1965 Tangerine Bowl was a significant event, marking the team's first bowl game appearance.
Conference Titles Won: The Black Bears have won seven shared and six outright conference titles.
Marching Band: The Pride of Maine Black Bear Marching Band adds to the game-day atmosphere.
Fight Song: "Maine Stein Song / For Maine" is the anthem that rallies the fans.
Mascot: Bananas T. Bear is the beloved mascot.

Maine Black Bears Football: A Legacy of Grit and Glory

Maine Black Bears football has a rich history filled with memorable moments and dedicated players. From their first season in 1892 to their recent playoff runs, the team has shown resilience and passion. With 13 conference titles and a strong community backing, the Black Bears have cemented their place in college football. Their home, Alfond Sports Stadium, has witnessed many thrilling games and record-breaking crowds. Notable players like Trevor Bates and Patrick Ricard have gone on to shine in the NFL, showcasing the program's ability to develop top talent. The team's culture of hard work and teamwork continues to inspire both players and fans alike. As they look to the future, the Maine Black Bears football program remains a symbol of pride and tradition for the University of Maine and its supporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhat's the deal with Maine Black Bears Football?

Well, Maine Black Bears Football is all about passion, grit, and tradition. This team, representing the University of Maine, competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision. They've got a history of making waves in college football, showing time and again that they're not to be underestimated.

QHow often do they play in championships?

These guys have had their fair share of championship appearances. While they might not be in the finals every year, when they do make it, they play with all they've got. Their journey to the playoffs and championship games is always something fans look forward to with bated breath.

QWho's the big boss of the team?

The head coach, of course! This position has seen some remarkable talent over the years, with each coach bringing their own style and strategy to the field. They're the ones calling the shots and leading the team to victory, game after game.

QGot any famous alumni?

You bet! Maine Black Bears Football has produced some top-notch players who've gone on to do great things in the NFL. It's always a proud moment for the team and fans alike when a former Black Bear makes headlines in the big leagues.

QWhat's their home turf like?

Their home games are played at a stadium that's nothing short of iconic. It's where the magic happens, with thousands of fans cheering them on. This place has witnessed countless memorable moments and is a fortress for the team.

QCan I catch a game on TV?

Absolutely! Their games are often broadcasted, allowing fans from all over to tune in and watch the action unfold. Whether it's a regular-season game or a nail-biting playoff, you won't want to miss a second.

QHow can I show my support?

Showing your support can be as simple as donning the team's colors or as dedicated as attending games. Fans also follow the team on social media, keeping up with the latest news and showing their love for the Black Bears online. Every bit of support counts and is greatly appreciated by the team.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.