Athletics
Go Diplomats!
F&M is among an elite group of liberal arts colleges that maintain exceptional academic standards while also competing in athletics at a highly successful level. With its primary membership affiliation in the Division III Centennial Conference, the Diplomats also compete at the NCAA Division I level in wrestling while additionally sponsoring both men’s and women’s rowing and squash at the varsity level.
The College’s distinct perspective on intercollegiate athletics emerges from both
our historic mission of educational excellence and also from a deep commitment to
the holistic development of our students. We embrace the educational value of competitive
sports and structure our athletic programs to maximize their contribution to student
development. F&M regards its coaches as educators first and is committed to providing
the resources necessary to help them be the best teachers, mentors and leaders they
can be for our students. We view the athletic experience as a framework for helping
students maximize learning and success in all aspects of college life and beyond.
James Conway ’25 is the First F&M Student to Earn the NCAA Elite 90 Award
This past spring, James Conway ’25 became the first F&M student to earn the NCAA Elite 90 Award in any sport. The Elite 90 award is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average who has reached the national championship level in their sport. Conway advanced to the NCAA Division I wrestling championships for the first time during his junior season. He owns 73 career victories after three seasons, ranking 15th in program history. Conway’s advice to incoming student-athletes is succinct but effective: “Try really, really hard,” he said. “Maybe you're scared to put everything into it, but if you do, then you can look back with no regrets.”Read More »
“I wanted a school where I could be pushed on and off the court.”
Omar Nichols ’24, two-time co-captain of the Diplomat men’s basketball team, said he chose F&M because of its high academic and athletic profiles. “I wanted a school where I could be pushed on and off the court,” he said. “The Centennial Conference is one of the best NCAA Division III basketball conferences in the country, with talented players and a rich history. Academically, I believed F&M was an institution that could provide me with a quality education and help me develop long-lasting relationships.” Nichols said he most cherished the camaraderie he formed during his time at F&M. “As a member of the basketball team, I enjoyed the competition and the bonds forged with my teammates,” he said. “Beyond the court, I valued the friendships I created with classmates and others I crossed paths with. I created lasting memories and fostered friendships that I know will last beyond our college years.”Read More »
“Playing volleyball at F&M was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience.”
Meredith Mangum ’24 wanted to play volleyball at a selective liberal arts college with strong academics. “I chose to attend F&M for the opportunity to form relationships with professors and explore various academic pursuits to learn about my passions,” she said. While at F&M, Mangum became a two-time volleyball team captain, two-time Centennial Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year, and Centennial Conference Defensive Player of the Year. She was also named a Centennial Conference nominee for the NCAA's Woman of the Year award. “Playing volleyball at F&M was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience,” she said.Read More »
Fitness & Recreation
Engaging in regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. With our recreation facilities, club and intramural sports, fitness classes and more, you’ll find a good way to work up a healthy sweat while learning lessons in leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance.Learn more
#godips
October 8, 2024
True Blue Weekend Brings Campus Together
Diplomat spirit rippled across campus as F&M welcomed an estimated 2,100 students, parents and alumni to True Blue Weekend. Find your favorite photos from the weekend.
October 2, 2024
The Best Autumn Activities at F&M
Exploring F&M for the first time this fall? In town once again for True Blue Weekend Oct. 5-6? There’s something for everyone on campus in autumn.
September 27, 2024
Fall Athletics in Full Swing at F&M
F&M is home to 28 varsity sports, along with five intramural sports and numerous club athletics. Browse an update of in-season sports on the turf, track, court and course.