ONEONTA, N.Y. - Hartwick College's Executive Director of Athletics, Paul Vecchio and SUNY Oneonta's Director of Athletics, Ryan Hooper announce the formalization of the Battle of the Hills. The institution crowned victorious will hoist a brand new trophy and hold it at their home base for bragging rights.

For over 55 years, Hartwick College and SUNY Oneonta have been going head to head on the field, the hardwood, the courts and in the pool. With these two schools separated by less than a mile, these yearly matchups are circled on every athlete's calendar as well as members of the Oneonta community, eager to see who gets the upper hand.

"I am happy to partner with Ryan and SUNY Oneonta to make a historic rivalry even better by creating an additional opportunity to celebrate these contests," said Vecchio. "Rivalries and tradition are what make collegiate athletics unique and great and I look forward to outstanding contests between the Hawks and the Red Dragons now and in the future."

From Division I battles in the past to current clashes in Division III, the two schools possess a truly rich history and are excited to take the field for some brand new hardware. The defending Empire 8 Champion Women's Tennis team will mark the first event of this year's Battle of the Hills, taking the courts against the Red Dragons on Thursday, August 28 at 3:30 at Wilber Park. See the full schedule below to stay caught up with all the action!

2025-26 Battle of the Hills Schedule

Women's Tennis - Thursday, August 28th at 3:30 PM at Wilber Park

Women' Soccer - Friday, August 29th at 4PM at SUNY Oneonta

Field Hockey - Wednesday, September 10th at 4PM at SUNY Oneonta

Men's Soccer - Tuesday, September 16th at 4:30 PM at SUNY Oneonta

Women's Volleyball - Wednesday, September 17th at 6PM at SUNY Oneonta

Swimming and Diving - Saturday, November 8 at 9AM/1PM at Hartwick College

*Men's and Women's Basketball - Wednesday, November 12 at SUNY Oneonta

*Women's Lacrosse - Wednesday, March 4 at SUNY Oneonta

*Men's Lacrosse - Wednesday, March 11 at 3PM at SUNY Oneonta 

*TBA and subject to change

About Hartwick College:

Hartwick, often referred to as The Life Balance College, is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in Oneonta, N.Y. Through its distinctive FlightPath approach, Hartwick blends academic excellence, career preparation and an active campus life to help students achieve a balanced and fulfilling college experience. With transparent tuition and a focus on health and wellness, Hartwick prepares students for lifelong success—both professionally and personally.