As a member of the Ivy League, Cornell fields 37 varsity teams for both men and women. Many students turn out to cheer on the “Big Red,” taking part in a long tradition of school spirit. To learn more, please visit Cornell's Varsity Sports website.
Cornell has a lot to offer when it comes to fitness and athletics. The university fields 37 varsity teams, offers one of the largest intramural sports programs in the country, and has the most comprehensive collegiate outdoor education program in the country. Students also have access to five fitness centers on campus.
To learn more, please visit our Health & Wellness page.
Officially, Cornell does not have a mascot. However, generations of Cornellians have come to know and love the Big Red Bear as Cornell’s unofficial mascot. Early in the school’s athletic history, a bear took over as its most recognizable symbol. Named “Touchdown,” the first live Cornell bear appeared in 1915 during Cornell's undefeated and national championship football season. Enthusiastic Big Red Bear-loving undergraduates don the fuzzy uniform and perform at various official Cornell celebrations and varsity athletic events, including at all football games.
