A History of Hillsdale College Football

Hillsdale College and Eastern Michigan University share the distinction of having the fourth-oldest college football programs in Michigan, both initiating play in 1891. Preceding them are the University of Michigan, Albion College, and Olivet College, whose programs were established before 1891.

Early Years (1891-1899)

The Beginning: 1891

The 1891 Hillsdale Dales football team marked the commencement of intercollegiate football at Hillsdale College.

1892 Season

The 1892 Hillsdale Dales football team competed as a member of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA), posting a 3-2-1 record. However, two of these victories are not officially recognized in the school's records. Games included matchups against Albion College and Olivet College.

1893 Season

Continuing as a member of the MIAA, the 1893 Hillsdale Dales football team demonstrated their capabilities with victories over Albion and Ypsilanti.

1894 Season

Under the guidance of head coach James L., the 1894 Hillsdale Dales football team concluded the season with a 3-3 record (1-2 in the MIAA). Games included matchups against Notre Dame, Albion, and Adrian.

Read also: Hillsdale College Sports

1895 Season

In their fifth year, the 1895 Hillsdale eleven achieved a 1-0-1 record, showing promise despite challenges.

1896 Season

Under head coach Duncan M. Martin, the 1896 Hillsdale Dales football team, still part of the MIAA, recorded a 2-4 season. Games included matchups against Normal, Albion, and Coldwater.

1897 Season

The 1897 season saw Ignatius M. leading the team for a single season. The Hillsdale Dales football team, as a member of the MIAA, achieved a 1-1-1 record (0-1-1 MIAA).

1898 Season

Duncan M. returned as head coach in 1898, leading the Hillsdale Dales to a 4-1 record (2-0 in the MIAA).

1899 Season

The 1899 Hillsdale Dales football team continued their MIAA participation. Games included matchups against Coldwater, Adrian, and Albion.

Read also: Academics at Hillsdale College

Notable Figures

Joe Schulte: A dominant running back during his time at Hillsdale, Joe Schulte had three 1,000-yard seasons and earned all-conference honors. During Hillsdale’s conference championship season in 1992, he rushed for 1,582 yards and 16 touchdowns. He finished his career with 4,495 yards, still second in program history. After attempting a professional football career with the NFL’s Miami Dolphins and the Canadian Football League’s Saskatchewan Rough Riders, he served as an assistant football coach at the University of Indianapolis, working for former Charger coach Joe Polizzi, ’76, who recruited Schulte to the Hillsdale campus.

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