Arlington, Texas, boasts a dynamic sports environment that caters to fans of all levels. From professional franchises to high school and collegiate teams, the city offers a rich tapestry of athletic endeavors.
Professional Sports
Arlington is home to the Texas Rangers, who have been a staple in the city since 1972. The Rangers play their home games at Globe Life Field, a state-of-the-art stadium that opened in 2020. The team has a storied history, including a World Series victory in 2023.
Additionally, the Dallas Wings, a WNBA team, have called Arlington’s College Park Center their home since 2016. The Wings have been instrumental in promoting women’s professional basketball in the region.
Collegiate Athletics
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) Mavericks compete in NCAA Division I sports as members of the Western Athletic Conference. UTA fields 15 varsity teams, including men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, and volleyball. Notably, UTA announced the addition of women’s flag football, set to begin competition in spring 2027, making it the first NCAA Division I university in Texas to offer the sport.
UTA is also renowned for its adaptive sports programs. The Movin’ Mavs wheelchair basketball team has secured multiple national championships, with the men’s team winning titles in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1997, 2002, 2006, 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2022, and the women’s team clinching championships in 2016 and 2018.
High School Sports
Arlington’s high schools have a rich tradition of athletic excellence. Arlington High School, established in 1904, offers a variety of sports programs, including football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. The school’s teams, known as the Colts, compete in the University Interscholastic League (UIL) District 8-6A.
James Bowie High School, another prominent institution, provides students with opportunities to participate in sports such as football, basketball, soccer, and volleyball. The Volunteers are active members of the UIL, fostering a competitive spirit among student-athletes.
Lamar High School also contributes to the city’s vibrant high school sports scene, with programs in baseball, basketball, football, soccer, swimming, track and field, and wrestling. The Vikings have a history of strong performances across various sports.
Community Engagement
Arlington’s commitment to sports extends beyond the professional and educational levels. The city hosts numerous community leagues and recreational programs, encouraging residents of all ages to engage in athletic activities. Facilities like the Arlington ISD Athletics Department support a wide range of sports, including archery, cross country, golf, swimming, tennis, track and field, and wrestling for both boys and girls at the high school and junior high levels.
In summary, Arlington’s sports landscape is both diverse and inclusive, offering opportunities for professional athletes, collegiate competitors, high school students, and community members to participate in and enjoy a wide array of sports.