Throughout the summer, GoMason.com will introduce the 12 other members of the Atlantic 10 Conference, in the order they joined the conference. We continue with Saint Joseph's University.
Saint Joseph's University
Established: 1851
Location: Philadelphia, Pa.
Enrollment: 8,800
Fight Song: “Oh When the Hawks Go Flying In”
Colors: Crimson and Gray
Nickname: Hawks
Athletics Website: http://www.SJUHawks.com
Athletic Twitter Handle: @SJUHawks
Distance from Mason: 155 miles
Joined A-10: 1982
Mason Connection: Former George Mason men's basketball coach Paul Westhead is an alumnus.
Notable Alumni
- Vince Papale (former Philadelphia Eagles player and inspiration for the film Invincible)
- Jamie Moyer (MLB pitcher)
- Dr. Jack Ramsay (Hall of Fame basketball coach)
- Joe Lunardi (ESPN Bracketologist)
Fun Facts:
- Saint Joseph's mascot is The Hawk, notable for being in constant motion by flapping its wings and “flying” in figure eights around the basketball court. The student who is selected to the position is given a full scholarship, travels to every game and also serves as a men's basketball team manager.
- Saint Joseph's campus has been located in three prior sites before moving to its current location in northwest Philadelphia. Previous campus sites were located downtown, including two just blocks from the site of Independence Hall and City Hall.
- Approximately one half of the student population studies at the Erivan K. Haub School of Business while the other half chooses a major from the College of Arts & Sciences.
- NBA All-Star Kobe Bryant grew up in adjacent Lower Merion Township and while starring at Lower Merion High, would play frequent pickup games against Philadelphia 76ers players on Saint Joseph's campus.
BONUS! The Cheesesteak Question with SJU head men's basketball coach Phil Martelli
What is on your favorite cheeseteak?
"Being as health conscious as I am, and always considering my figure, I prefer chicken cheesesteaks. I like them from any place in Philadelphia that hangs a sign saying "The Hawk Will Never Die!'
The Hawk, Saint Joseph's mascot.
