Misericordia Cougars Football Tickets

When one thinks of college football, big-name programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Notre Dame may come to mind. While these top-tier teams often dominate the headlines, there are also countless smaller programs across the country that are just as passionate about the sport – and Misericordia University's Cougars football team is one such example.

Nestled in Dallas, Pennsylvania, Misericordia University is a private Catholic institution with a strong athletics program. Their football team, the Cougars, competes at the NCAA Division III level, which means they don't offer athletic scholarships and their athletes must balance rigorous academic coursework alongside their on-field commitments.

Despite this, the Cougars have become a powerful force in the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) over the past few years. In 2019, they finished the season with an impressive 8-2 record, earning themselves a spot in the ECAC Clayton Chapman Bowl. They ultimately lost in that game, but it was still a major achievement for a program that has only been around since 2013.

One reason for the Cougars' success is their dedication to teamwork and community. Head Coach Mark Ross emphasizes the importance of physical toughness and mental resilience, but he also prioritizes creating a supportive, tight-knit culture among his players. "We build trust, we build love," Ross said in an interview with Town & Gown magazine. "Our goal is always to inspire our guys to be better men and better people."

Off the field, the Cougars are active in giving back to their community. In 2020, they organized a "Pink Game" in partnership with local hospitals to raise awareness for breast cancer and support patients undergoing treatment. They've also participated in charity walks and volunteered at local schools.

As a Division III program, the Cougars' games don't draw quite the same attention or crowds as larger programs might. But that doesn't diminish the importance of the sport to the players, coaches, and fans involved. In fact, it could be argued that Division III football is even more meaningful precisely because it's not driven by the same glitz and glamour as Division I powerhouses.

For the players at Misericordia, football is a way to challenge themselves both physically and mentally, build deep connections with their teammates, and represent their school with pride. And for the fans who come out to support them on Saturdays in the fall, it's a chance to come together as a community and cheer on their local heroes.

In short, the Misericordia Cougars may not have the same national recognition as other college football programs. But they are proof that football – and sports in general – can bring people together, build character, and inspire greatness regardless of the level of competition.