May 8, 2024
Ferris State Ranks Among Nation’s Best for College Athletics
Ferris State University is one of the best places in the nation for student-athletes to compete in top programs while earning a quality education, according to University Magazine.
University Magazine is an online publication created at University of Windsor in Canada. It published a ranking of leading choices for standout prospective student-athletes to consider ahead of the 2024-25 academic year and beyond. University Magazine is a student-generated resource that provides tips on student life, financial considerations, career options, academic majors, athletics, and more.
Ferris State, which ranked 19th, was one of only two Michigan schools to be lauded among the top 25 on the full list. Baylor University in Texas was in the top spot.
“Ferris State University stands out as the premier institution for collegiate athletics in 2024,” the publication states. “Known for its exceptional sports programs, the university fosters a robust competitive spirit and nurtures top-tier athletes. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced coaching staff, Ferris State offers athletes the resources to excel in their sports and academic endeavors, making it the go-to- choice for aspiring sports professionals.”
One of Ferris State’s first moments soaring on the national athletics map came during its 2018 run to the men’s basketball NCAA Division II National Championship, culminating in a thrilling 71-69 win over South Dakota’s Northern State. In 2021 and 2022, the football team rushed to dominating NCAA Division II National Championship wins over Valdosta State of Georgia and Colorado School of Mines.
In Spring 2024, The Bulldog men’s and women’s basketball teams put the “madness” in March Madness after winning NCAA Division II Midwest Region championships to advance to their respective Elite Eight tournaments, with the women’s team advancing to the Final Four.
Beyond its national and regional successes, Ferris State continues to make a mark in GLIAC competition in numerous sports. In Fall 2023, the Bulldog volleyball team won its third consecutive Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship and nine of the last 10.
The 2023-24 academic year also has GLIAC championships for women’s golf, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, men’s basketball, and volleyball. The men's golf team won the Spring 2023 GLIAC championship.
Head coach Mark Doren, who earned the GLIAC Coaching Staff of the Year, led the men’s and women’s tennis teams to conference championships and NCAA tournament berths.
Ferris State softball rookie first baseman Alexis Kozlowski received the 2024 GLIAC Freshman of the Year Award. It’s the second consecutive season a Bulldog has claimed the honor.
Beyond team success, student-athletes earned notable achievements. Basketball star Chloe Idoni earned College Sports Communicators Academic All-America Team honors for the second consecutive season. Previously, Idoni was a GLIAC Commissioner’s Award honoree for excellence.
The Bulldog football team has had multiple alumni earning opportunities with National Football League franchises. Defensive back Shon Stephens was invited to the Philadelphia Eagles’ camp, and wide receiver Xavier Wade picked up a similar invite from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Former Bulldog football tight end and men’s basketball standout Mason Pline has signed as a free agent with the San Francisco 49ers.
The women's soccer program won a regional championship in 2022 and advanced to the NCAA Division II Final Four.
University Magazine is a student-generated resource that provides tips on student life, financial considerations, career options, academic majors, athletics, and more.
Visit the Ferris State Athletics website for more information about the student-athletes, coaches, administrative staff and more.