The Youngstown State Penguins are a Division I swimming program in the Horizon League. The Penguins bring 44 swimmers into the Horizon League competition this season. As the season advances, the Penguins' meet calendar continues to fill in. Youngstown State enters 2026 with 44 athletes on the roster. The Penguins host home meets on the Youngstown State campus. The Penguins' meet schedule will be updated as results are posted. The Penguins are anchored in a long Youngstown State athletic tradition. When fans fuel a Penguin athlete on RallyFuel, 90% lands directly with the athlete — funding training, recovery, and the realities of college sports.
Youngstown State University (YSU) is a public research institution located in Youngstown, Ohio. It competes in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) for football and the Horizon League for most other sports. With an enrollment exceeding 10,000 students, YSU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, supporting a balanced academic and athletic environment. The university’s regional reputation and mid-sized scale provide a solid foundation for fostering competitive Division I athletics within a mid-major market context.
Youngstown State’s athletic identity is anchored by its football program, known as the Penguins, which has a notable history in FCS competition. The football team has achieved multiple national championships and maintains significant regional rivalries, particularly with nearby institutions in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Beyond football, YSU fields competitive teams in basketball, baseball, and volleyball, contributing to a comprehensive athletic department with solid community engagement.
Youngstown State leverages a robust donor ecosystem supported by an engaged alumni base concentrated in the Ohio-Pennsylvania industrial corridor. This network underpins fundraising efforts and brand development initiatives critical to NIL opportunities. The local market’s moderate size offers targeted visibility but requires strategic marketing to maximize media rights and sponsorship value. YSU’s athletic facilities, including Stambaugh Stadium and the Beeghly Center, serve as key infrastructure assets that enhance recruiting leverage and provide venues suitable for hosting regional events, further amplifying market engagement.
By integrating NIL education with community and corporate partnerships, YSU aims to increase student-athlete ROI through tailored endorsement deals and brand-building platforms. The combination of a committed donor base, established athletic success, and quality facilities positions Youngstown State to capitalize on emerging NCAA market dynamics effectively.
