Athletics
Go Diplomats!
F&M is among an elite group of liberal arts colleges that maintain exceptional academic standards while also competing in athletics at a highly successful level. The College’s primary membership affiliation is in the Division III Centennial Conference. The Diplomats also compete at the NCAA Division I level in wrestling, and sponsor both men’s and women’s rowing and squash at the varsity level.
Our historic mission of educational excellence and deep commitment to the holistic development of our students gives us a distinct perspective on intercollegiate athletics. At F&M, we embrace the educational value of competitive sports and structure our athletic programs to maximize student learning and development. We view our coaches as educators first, and are committed to providing the resources to help them be the best teachers, mentors, and leaders they can be for our students. At F&M, the athletic experience is a meaningful framework to help students succeed in all aspects of life, at college and beyond.
Coach Spotlight
“I know firsthand what it means to wear 'Diplomats' across your chest, to balance
academics and athletics, and to represent this incredible college. Helping current
players experience that same pride and sense of belonging is the most rewarding part
of the job.”
Approximately 40% of Franklin & Marshall students compete in varsity sports. Some
like it so much they return to coach the next generation of Diplomats. There are currently
13 coaches on the athletics staff who once represented F&M as student-athletes.
Dina Henry ’94, head coach for softball, said, “Coaching at F&M as an alumna means
being part of a full-circle story. I know firsthand what it means to wear 'Diplomats'
across your chest, to balance academics and athletics, and to represent this incredible
college. Helping current players experience that same pride and sense of belonging
is the most rewarding part of the job.”
Hear from five graduates who now coach athletics at their alma mater.
Read More »Alumni Spotlight
2025 Graduate and Dedicated Diplomat is Conference Finalist for NCAA Woman of the
Year
A Diplomat athlete’s reach extends beyond their impact on scoreboards and win-loss
records. Kennedy Wilburn ’25 recently was named one of two Centennial Conference nominees
for the NCAA's prestigious Woman of the Year Award.
Read More »Student Spotlight
James Conway ’26 is the First F&M Student to Earn the NCAA Elite 90 Award
James Conway ’26 is the first F&M student to earn the NCAA Elite 90 Award in any sport.
The Elite 90 award is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative
grade point average who has reached the national championship level in their sport.
Conway advanced to the NCAA Division I wrestling championships for the first time
during his junior season. He owns 73 career victories after three seasons, ranking
15th in program history.
Conway’s advice to incoming student-athletes is succinct but effective: “Try really,
really hard,” he said. “Maybe you're scared to put everything into it, but if you
do, then you can look back with no regrets.”
Read More »
Fitness & Recreation
Engaging in regular physical activity gives you a chance to make new friends, find joy and self-expression, or relax and clear your mind — and is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. Through our club and intramural sports, recreation facilities, fitness classes and more, you can find activities to work up a healthy sweat while learning lessons in leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance.Learn more
#godips
October 7, 2025 Approximately 40% of F&M students compete in varsity sports. Some like it so much they return to lead the next generation of Diplomats. Meet the coaches who once represented F&M as student-athletes. September 4, 2025 A Diplomat athlete’s reach extends beyond their impact on scoreboards and win-loss records. Kennedy Wilburn ’25 recently was named one of two Centennial Conference nominees for the NCAA's prestigious Woman of the Year Award. August 28, 2025 The Franklin & Marshall men's basketball team isn't just striving for victory on the court. Teammates are also making memories, forming connections, and building skills that will last a lifetime. The team traveled to Costa Rica in early August to bond, broaden their horizons, and step out of their comfort zones.Alumni Coaches Shape New Generation of Diplomats
2025 Graduate and Dedicated Diplomat is Conference Finalist for NCAA Woman of the Year
Men's Basketball Team Forges Friendships in Costa Rica