Test Your Knowledge With Iowa Hawkeyes Football Quiz

Kinnick Stadium is the home of Iowa Hawkeyes football. With a seating capacity of over 70,000, it provides an electric atmosphere for fans. Opened in 1929, Kinnick is named after Nile Kinnick, the school’s only Heisman Trophy winner. The stadium is known for its iconic pink visitor locker rooms and the "Iowa Wave," where fans wave to patients at the nearby children's hospital after the first quarter. Its location in Iowa City makes it central to the university, and its renovation over the years has made it one of the most revered stadiums in college football.

Herky the Hawk is the beloved mascot of the Iowa Hawkeyes. Introduced in the 1950s, Herky represents the spirit and toughness of the Iowa athletic teams. The name "Hawkeyes" stems from the state's historical roots, named after Chief Black Hawk, who played a role in Iowa's history. Herky is present at nearly every sporting event, energizing fans and symbolizing the tenacity of Iowa athletes. His presence on the field and at games helps connect fans with the university's long-standing tradition and pride in their teams across all sports.

The Iowa Hawkeyes are members of the Big Ten Conference, which they joined in 1899. As one of the oldest and most prestigious athletic conferences in the country, the Big Ten is known for its strong football programs and intense rivalries. Competing in the Big Ten provides Iowa with opportunities for significant exposure, high-level competition, and access to major bowl games. Schools in the Big Ten, like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State, have strong football traditions, making the conference one of the most challenging and respected leagues in NCAA Division I sports.

The official colors of the Iowa Hawkeyes are black and gold. These colors are synonymous with the team’s identity and are seen across all athletic uniforms, fan gear, and branding materials. Black and gold represent strength, resilience, and tradition, aligning with Iowa’s hardworking, blue-collar image. These colors also help unify the various sports teams under a single, recognizable brand. Whether on the football field or basketball court, Iowa’s black and gold colors inspire pride in fans and athletes alike, creating a strong visual connection between the teams and their supporters.

"Iowa Fight Song" is the official fight song of the Iowa Hawkeyes. Written in 1951, the song is played at every major sporting event, from football games at Kinnick Stadium to basketball games at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. It serves as a rallying cry for fans, energizing the crowd and athletes alike. The song embodies the pride and spirit of the university, motivating both players and fans to give their all. It has become an integral part of Iowa’s sports culture, symbolizing unity and passion for the Hawkeyes’ athletic teams across all sports.

Duane Banks Field is home to the University of Iowa baseball team. Named after Duane Banks, a long-time Iowa baseball coach, the stadium is located on the university's campus and offers seating for over 3,000 fans. It has been the site of numerous exciting college baseball games, providing a top-notch facility for both players and fans. Iowa’s baseball program has seen success over the years, and the field is integral to the development of future MLB prospects. The stadium's strategic location and modern amenities make it a premier destination for college baseball in the Midwest.

Beth Goetz became the University of Iowa’s athletic director after Gary Barta retired in 2023. Goetz, an experienced administrator, previously served as the athletic director at Ball State and held roles at other major universities. Her appointment reflects Iowa’s commitment to maintaining strong leadership in a department known for excellence across various sports. Goetz’s experience and leadership have set her up to steer Iowa through the rapidly changing landscape of college sports, including challenges like athlete compensation and expanded media rights, ensuring Iowa remains competitive both on and off the field.

Carver-Hawkeye Arena is the home venue for Iowa’s wrestling matches, as well as basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics events. Opened in 1983, it is known for its intense atmosphere, especially during wrestling meets, where Iowa’s dominant wrestling program competes. With a capacity of around 15,500, it is one of the premier arenas in college sports. Iowa’s wrestling tradition, with multiple national championships, makes Carver-Hawkeye Arena a fortress for the sport. The facility’s modern amenities and central location in Iowa City make it an essential part of the university’s athletic infrastructure.

The Iowa men’s basketball team last reached the NCAA Final Four in 1980. Coached by Lute Olson, the team finished the season with a 23-10 record and made a deep tournament run before being knocked out in the semifinals by eventual national champion, Louisville. The 1980 team remains one of Iowa’s most celebrated squads, cementing their place in the school’s basketball history. Reaching the Final Four is a significant accomplishment, demonstrating the team’s ability to compete at the highest levels of college basketball and earning respect from both peers and fans alike.

Iowa’s football team has won two national championships, with titles in 1921 and 1958. Under the leadership of Coach Forest Evashevski, the 1958 Hawkeyes were particularly dominant, finishing with an 8-1-1 record and winning the Rose Bowl. National championships are a rare and prestigious achievement, highlighting Iowa’s historical prowess in college football. The team’s success during these periods established a strong football culture that continues to this day, influencing both the expectations of fans and the program’s identity. While national titles are elusive, Iowa’s tradition of competitive football remains a key part of its legacy.