The University of Olivet football team wraps up its season on Saturday, Nov. 12 but has already secured at least a share of the MIAA conference title and a spot in the NCAA DIII playoffs. The Comets earned a share of the conference title last year, making 2015 and 2016 the first time back-to-back champion seasons have occurred in over a hundred years. The last time Olivet collected back-to-back titles was in 1913 and 1914.
Saturday’s game against Trine University at the Cutler Athletic Complex at 1 p.m. will determine if Olivet’s team will secure the title outright or share the championship with Hope College. This season could result in the first time Olivet has held the outright conference championship since 1974.
Students, staff and faculty of MIAA schools may attend the game for free, for all others, general admission is $7. Tailgating is welcome in the grass field behind the home bleachers across the road. Also, live stats will be available at OlivetComets.com
In addition, the Comet team has secured a trip to the NCAA DIII playoffs, the first time since 2007, after defeating Adrian on Nov. 5. A special event will be held Sunday, Nov. 13 at 5:45 p.m. in the Cutler Event Center to celebrate the achievements of the team and to view the live playoff selection show. At 6 p.m. a live stream of the selection will begin, revealing the top teams and host stadiums for the action coming this week, including the team Olivet will face in the opening round. The first playoff game is anticipated to be held on Saturday, Nov. 19. Refreshments and seating will be provided; the event is free and open to college and community members.
For more information about Saturday’s game or Sunday’s selection show, please contact Athletic Director Ryan Shockey at 269.749.7198 or rshockey@uolivet.edu.