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HNU Athletics

Academic Success First, Athletic Success Always, and Service to Others Forever

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Resources for Former Student-Athletes

Holy Names Hawks

HNU Athletics

Holy Names University Athletics was a source of pride, unity, and achievement for the Holy Names community. Throughout its history, the athletic program at HNU fostered a strong sense of community and provided countless student-athletes with an opportunity to showcase their talents and represent their beloved institution.

Over the years, the Hawks soared to great heights, achieving numerous triumphs in baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball. The teams exemplified teamwork, leadership, and service, inspiring their peers and fans alike.

With the closure of Holy Names University at the end of the Spring 2023 semester, HNU Athletics teams completed their final season. The legacy of HNU Athletics will continue to live on in the hearts of the student-athletes, coaches, and fans who shared in the joys and challenges of this extraordinary journey.

  • Tobin Gymnasium

  • The HNU Hawks Mascot

  • HNU Athletics win NCAA Award for Community Service

  • HNU baseball player

    Aiden McIntyre ‘18

    Aiden McIntyre ‘18 makes Hawks history as the first HNU student-athlete drafted by Major League

HNU Hawks

History

For almost three decades, Holy Names Hawks (also known as the HNU Hawks) proudly represented Oakland's Holy Names University in intercollegiate sports. In 1994, HNU Athletics transitioned from club sports to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), competing in basketball, volleyball, and cross-country as part of the Pacific Coastal Conference. In 1996, they became a founding member of the California Pacific Conference (CAL PAC), marking a significant milestone in the program's history.

Throughout their affiliation with the CAL PAC, HNU Athletics achieved remarkable success, amassing an impressive record of accomplishments. The Hawks received seven California Pacific Conference All-Sports Awards, secured 54 conference championships, made 36 appearances in the NAIA national tournament, participated in 26 regional tournaments, clinched three regional championships, and garnered numerous individual accolades such as conference MVPs, NAIA All-Americans, and Academic All-Americans. Additionally, their dedicated coaches were honored with 26 conference coach of the year awards.

In their pursuit of further growth and competition, HNU Athletics embarked on a new chapter. In July 2016, HNU Athletics reached a significant milestone as they became an active member of the NCAA Division II PacWest Conference. This marked a new era of competition and opportunities for the Hawks.

The journey of HNU Athletics showcased the dedication, perseverance, and achievements of countless student-athletes, coaches, and fans. Their legacy will forever be remembered as a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence that defined Holy Names University Athletics.