When you talk about college football, some of the most recognized teams in the country come to mind: Alabama Crimson Tide, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Clemson Tigers. But there are also many smaller colleges that have their own unique programs and traditions, one of which being the Colby College Mules.
Located in Waterville, Maine, Colby College is a small liberal arts institution with a student body of around 2,000. As such, it's not surprising that its football program doesn't receive as much attention as larger schools like the University of Texas or Notre Dame. However, that doesn't mean the Mules' football program lacks talent or success.
Compared to other Division III colleges, the Mules football team has a relatively long history - playing their first official game in 1892. Over time, the team has gone through several coaches, each bringing their own strengths and strategies to the field. Nonetheless, there are five coaches who have left a profound impact on the program, including Jack Cosgrove, Tom Austin, and Bob Brown.
Throughout the years, the Colby College Mules football team has established itself as a reputable competitor in Division III football. They have even earned several titles such as the New England Conference championship in 1996 and the NESCAC championship in 2005.
Most recently, the Mules have been making headlines for their successful 2019 season. Under the leadership of head coach Jack Cosgrove, the team finished the regular season with an impressive record of 8-1, earning them a spot in the NCAA Division III tournament. While they were eventually defeated by Union College in the opening round of the playoffs, the overall performance of the team demonstrated how far they had come since the start of the season.
So how does Colby College Mules Football compare to other college football programs across the country? In terms of resources, facilities, and funding, they may fall behind larger universities. However, when it comes to the dedication and passion of its players, coaches, and fanbase, it's no different than that of other schools.
The Mules football team may not always make headline news - but that doesn't mean their games are any less competitive or intense than those of larger schools. To truly appreciate college football, it's important to recognize and appreciate programs like Colby College's Mules - who may not have the same level of exposure, but certainly possess the same level of spirit, grit, and love for the game.