football has been sponsored by the university since 1895. historically, it has not enjoyed the consistent success that other athletic teams have had. however, with the hiring of head coach willie fritz before the 1997 season, the mules became relevant again. since coming to ucm, fritz has a record of 82–40. that includes two postseason appearances. in 2001, the mules went 10–2 and won the mineral water bowl in excelsior springs, missouri. in 2002, they made their first ever trip to the ncaa division ii playoffs, losing to northern colorado 49-28.