The mission of the University of Richmond Department of Athletics is to develop and maintain a Division I athletics program, which attracts national recognition to the University by:
- exhibiting integrity and academic achievement at the highest level;
- consistently competing for conference championships and/or earning opportunities for NCAA championships, and;
- providing a positive collegiate experience for its student-athletes.
Annually, more than 400 student-athletes participate in one of the nineteen (19) varsity sports offered by the University; and, as they do so, they send a message that is clear and definitive.
The message remains one of education and growth…education of young people in all that they do at one of the nation's finest universities…a message of student-athletes who compete on the highest level in a challenging and demanding setting and who do so in accordance with University and NCAA rules and regulations. The student-athletes who represent Richmond are students who experience the enjoyment of being athletes, coached by men and women who have the responsibility and desire to be educators at an institution committed to their total development.
This development is evidenced by an average graduation rate of 83 percent for Spider student-athletes, placing Richmond athletics among the nation's leaders.
The accomplishments of these young men and women do not go unnoticed, with national recognition and exposure coming often. Individual accomplishments, team championships and NCAA Tournament appearances fill the rich history of Richmond athletics, all bringing the national spotlight to the Richmond campus. And in the past two decades, that light has shone brightest on Richmond basketball with the men's team making six visits to the NCAA Tournament and four to the National Invitational Tournament. In post-season play, the Spiders have become a media and fan favorite, bringing unparalleled exposure to the University.
Come the 2001-2002 year, this national exposure will continue to grow, as the University of Richmond will become a member of the Atlantic 10. The affiliation with this league will greatly enhance the exposure of the University and its athletics program. The move will also provide the University entrance into areas of the nation that match the geographic footprint of its many and varied constituents. As a member of the Atlantic 10, a whole new world of opportunities awaits the University community and its student-athletes.
While much change and excitement await in the future, the Department of Athletics' commitment to its student-athletes will not waiver. They will continue to be led by coaches and supported by administrators who are committed to their total growth and welfare. They will continue to be supported by a University administration in a manner unmatched in the history of Spider athletics. They will continue to grow and to learn in all that they do.
