Students cheering in the student section during Gopher football game

Gopher Athletics

Welcome to the Big Ten, sports fans. Big Ten athletics have a way of energizing all students, and while Gopher student-athletes compete at the highest level in their sports, they also regularly rank tops in academics among public institutions. Our athletes are driven, and our fans are driven to support them.

3.44+

Average student-athlete GPA (first among public institutions)

600+

Number of student-athletes

22

Number of sports

3.44+

Average student-athlete GPA (first among public institutions)

600+

Number of student-athletes

22

Number of sports

History

From the history of our school colors (maroon and gold), to the creation of cheerleading in 1898 and the birth of the world's most lovable mascot, Goldy Gopher, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities sporting scene enjoys a rich heritage.

News

Left: Portrait of Professor Beth Lewis. Right: Hand grabbing a dumbbell from a gym.
Expert Alert

Physical Fitness Month

As we approach National Physical Fitness Month in May, College of Education and Human Development Professor Beth Lewis speaks to the importance of physical fitness at every age.