Montana Tech Orediggers is a university in Butte, Montana that participates in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) sports conference. The athletic teams represent the school and have been collectively referred to as Orediggers since 1935. Over the years, Montana Tech has had a successful program, producing multiple All-Americans, national championship appearances, and winning numerous conference titles.
The football team at Montana Tech is the most notable program on campus. The team has a successful history that dates back to 1902 and currently plays their games on the nearly century-old Bob Green Field. The Orediggers have experienced a resurgence in recent years under Head Coach Chuck Morrell, who has led the team to three Frontier Conference championships in the last four seasons. The success on the field has garnered attention from across the country, and several players have gone on to sign professional contracts or earn invitations to national showcases such as the Senior Bowl.
Montana Tech also boasts successful programs in men's and women's basketball, cross country, golf, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling. The basketball programs have made multiple appearances in the national tournament and have produced some of the best players in conference history. In recent years, the volleyball team has emerged as a force within the Frontier Conference, winning a regular-season title in 2019.
Another major aspect of Montana Tech athletics is the community support. The school has a loyal fan base that has shown up to cheer on the Orediggers even during times of struggle. The "Oredigger Nation," as it is called, shows up en masse to support every program in any way they can. Whether it be through attendance, financial backing, or volunteerism, Montana Tech supporters embody the true spirit of Division II sports.
Finally, the athletic programs at Montana Tech offer student-athletes an opportunity to grow both academically and athletically. As a smaller school, Montana Tech prides itself on smaller class sizes and high-quality education. With a focus on engineering, many of the athletes are able to achieve degrees that will lead them to meaningful careers after graduation. Additionally, the coaches place an emphasis on excellence both on and off the field. It is not uncommon for Montana Tech teams to lead the Frontier Conference in academic awards.
In conclusion, Montana Tech Oredigger athletics is a critical piece of the university's identity and community. The program exhibits success, community backing, and a focus on excellence both academically and athletically. Whether it be on the football field, basketball court, or in the classroom, the Orediggers are making their mark as one of the top NAIA programs in the country.