UToledo Athletics has entered into this year with plenty to celebrate and plenty in transition. The Toledo Rockets have continued to win across multiple sports at a high level, even as the department prepares for a change. With Athletic Director Bryan Blair’s departure and the football program beginning a new era under head coach Mike Jacobs, UToledo Athletics’s next chapter has already begun.
Top Sports Moments:
1. Men’s basketball came within one win of the NCAA Tournament.
UToledo’s loss to Akron brought them one game short of earning their first NCAA bid since 1980. While a loss, the team reached a significant milestone.
2. Women’s volleyball won its first MAC championship in program history.
The season became one of the most significant in the team’s history as the championship title ended a 45-year-long wait — a major win accomplished in head coach Brian Wright’s first year.
3. Football closed one era and opened another.
Jason Candle, arguably UToledo’s most successful football coach, takes a new position at the University of Connecticut, while UToledo’s new head coach, Mike Jacobs, brings an impressive high-winning track record to Rocket football.
4. Women’s cross country brought home another championship.
The team won its fifth consecutive title and the 11th MAC championship for UToledo, making it the top university in the league with the most titles.
5. Women’s tennis recruited Emerson Jones.
UToledo gained its highest-ever ranked tennis player to join the 2026-2027 season. Jones is ranked 32nd in the U.S.
6. Women’s rowing had a historic debut.
Marking the first varsity sport added to UToledo in over 30 years, women’s rowing made its historic debut in September 2025. This inaugural season expanded the athletic department to 17 programs.
