University of Wyoming Cowboys

University of Wyoming Cowboys
Name	University of Wyoming Cowboys
University	University of Wyoming
Conference	Mountain West Conference
Division	NCAA Division I
Director	Tom Burman
Location	Laramie, Wyoming
Stadium	War Memorial Stadium
Arena	Arena-Auditorium
Mascot	Cowboy Joe
Nickname	Cowboys & Cowgirls
Fight song	Ragtime Cowboy Joe

University of Wyoming Cowboys. The athletic program represents the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyoming, competing at the NCAA Division I level as a member of the Mountain West Conference. Known collectively as the Cowboys and Cowgirls, the teams have a storied history in the American West, with a strong identity rooted in the state's ranching heritage. Their mascot is Cowboy Joe, a live Quarter Horse, and their colors are Brown and yellow.

History

The athletic history of the program dates to the late 19th century, with the first organized football game played in 1893. The university was a founding member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference before later joining the Western Athletic Conference and ultimately becoming a charter member of the Mountain West Conference in 1999. Key historical moments include the 1943 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament appearance under coach Everett Shelton and the 1967 Sugar Bowl victory in football, led by coach Lloyd Eaton and featuring players like Jim Kiick. The program has navigated significant events such as the 1969 "Black 14" incident, which had a profound impact on college athletics and civil rights.

Athletic programs

The department sponsors numerous varsity sports, with Wyoming Cowboys football competing in the NCAA Division I FBS and playing its home games at War Memorial Stadium. The Wyoming Cowboys basketball team, a consistent contender in the Mountain West Conference, plays in the Arena-Auditorium, known as "The Dome of Doom." Other men's teams include wrestling, track and field, and golf. Women's teams, the Cowgirls, compete in basketball, volleyball, soccer, cross country, golf, tennis, track and field, and swimming and diving, with the Wyoming Cowgirls basketball team achieving multiple NCAA tournament appearances.

Facilities

Primary athletic facilities are clustered on the university campus in Laramie. War Memorial Stadium, opened in 1950, is the iconic football venue and also houses the Wildcatter Stadium Club. The Arena-Auditorium is the home for basketball and volleyball, renowned for its high-altitude home-court advantage. Other key facilities include the Rochelle Athletics Center for training, the Louis S. Madrid Sports Complex for soccer and track, the UniWyo Sports Complex for swimming, and the Jacobsen Golf Course for the golf teams.

Notable athletes and coaches

The program has produced many athletes who achieved professional and Olympic success. Notable football players include Brett Smith, Josh Allen, Marcus Harris, and Ryan Yarborough. In basketball, standouts include Fennis Dembo, Theo Ratliff, Larry Nance Jr., and Justin James. Legendary coaches include Bowden Wyatt and Joe Tiller in football, and Everett Shelton and Jim Brandenburg in basketball. Olympic medalists from the track and field program include Rink Babka and more recently, Mason Finley.

Rivalries

The most intense and historic rivalry is with the Colorado State Rams, known as the "Border War," with the winning football team claiming the Bronze Boot trophy. Another significant football rivalry is with the Air Force Falcons, competing for the Falcon Trophy. The basketball team maintains a strong competitive rivalry with the Utah State Aggies and the San Diego State Aztecs within the Mountain West Conference. These contests are central to the regional sports culture of the Rocky Mountains.

Traditions and culture

Game day in Laramie is defined by unique traditions, including the pre-game "Cowboy Walk" where fans greet the team. The Western Thunder Marching Band performs the fight song, "Ragtime Cowboy Joe." The spirit squad, led by Cowboy Joe and the costumed mascot "Pistol Pete," energizes crowds. The "Wyo" hand sign and the singing of the University of Wyoming alma mater are cherished rituals. The culture is deeply tied to Wyoming's identity, emphasizing toughness, resilience, and western pride.

Category:University of Wyoming Category:Mountain West Conference