Sam Houston

With origins dating back to 1912, Sam Houston State University embodies the spirit of East Texas through its Bearkat athletics. The program boasts two football national championships, including the 2020 FCS title, and national success in softball and baseball with 30 postseason appearances. The storied "Battle of the Piney Woods" against Stephen F. Austin represents a fierce rivalry integral to Bearkat culture. Venues like Bernard Johnson Coliseum and Bowers Stadium are centers of passionate competition. Sam Houston holds seven Southland Conference Commissioner’s Cups and has produced elite athletes with professional and Olympic aspirations. Now competing at the FBS level in Conference USA, the Bearkats embody relentless East Texas pride, striving for continued championship success and developing athletes who represent their region with honor and tenacity.