Washington University has a long and rich tradition of athletic achievement that first started well over 100 years ago. Since the mid-1970's the Bears have competed as a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III. Washington U. has been a member of the University Athletic Association (UAA) since the beginning of the 1987-88 season.

Throughout its athletic history, Washington University has continued to establish itself as both a leader and pioneer in the world of student-athletics.