Houston Cougars

The Houston Cougars are the athletic teams of the University of Houston. The university is a member of the American Athletic Conference and competes in NCAA Division I, fielding 17 varsity teams (7 men’s and 10 women’s). The team name comes from “Cougar Nation”, which is a term used to refer to alumni, students, faculty and fans associated with UH.

History: Prior to joining the AAC in 2013, Houston was an original member of Conference USA from 1996–2012 during this time they won 18 conference championships across various sports including six football titles. They were also members of Southwest Conference from 1976-1995 where they captured 11 SWC crowns including five consecutive football championships between 1990-1994 under then head coach Jack Pardee. In addition to their numerous league championship accolades over their history; other notable accomplishments include winning two College World Series baseball titles (1983 & 2019), four Final Four appearances for mens basketball (1967 & 1968 NIT Champions) as well as being named National Football Champions by multiple outlets after going 13-0 in 2011 led by Heisman Trophy Winner Case Keenum under then Head Coach Kevin Sumlin but due to sanctions imposed on them at that time it prevented them from playing for any postseason bowl game or claiming an official title outright.

Facilities: On campus facilities includes TDECU Stadium home of Cougars football since 2014 following renovation works done on former Robertson Stadium site within same grounds ; Hofheinz Pavilion home venue for Mens/Womens Basketball programs ; Fertitta Center opened 2018 currently hosting Volleyball games while also serving student recreational activities such as club sports , fitness classes etc . Also located there is Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park Baseball facility among many others scattered around campus area making up one unified athletics complex known simply “Houston Athletics Village”

Traditions : Some popular school traditions include singing fight song called ‘Go Coogs Go’ after big wins , cheering loud using famous slogan “Eat Em Up! Cougars!” during sporting events plus having mascot Shasta wearing giant cougar costume running around stadium stands connecting all spectators together . Another notable custom amongst students involves lighting bonfire night before every Homecoming match against rival Rice Owls adding extra excitement atmosphere prior kick off bell ringing out signaling start new chapter rivalry once more