Football History

The Princeton Tigers have played intercollegiate football since 1869 when one considers their participation in the famous, almost soccer-like contest with Rutgers as the first game played between opposing colleges in the US. The Tigers gridiron team has played over 1200 games, more than any other school in history. The Tigers claim 28 national championships from official NCAA-designated major selectors and 12 Ivy Conference championships. Over the years, coaches such as Bill Roper and Fritz Crisler have graced the Princeton sidelines. The players, well, there have been some legends too. Knowlton Ames, John Baird, Mike Catapano, Judd Garrett, Dennis Norman, and more have famously donned the "P." Great traditions, people, and play make for a fascinating history.