United States Sports University

The United States Sports University (formerly United States Sports Academy) is a private, nonprofit institution in Daphne, Alabama, specialising exclusively in sports education. 
Founded in 1972 by Dr. Thomas P. Rosandich to improve coaching and sports development in the U.S., it offers accredited bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programmes focused on coaching, sports management, sports medicine, and related fields. The university delivers education globally through distance learning and partnerships with Olympic committees and sports organisations. 

In 2025, it was renamed to reflect its expanded academic role. USSU remains the only independent, accredited sports university in the United States, dedicated to advancing sports education and professional excellence worldwide.

he United States Sports Academy, now known as United States Sports University (USSU), was founded in 1972 by Dr. Thomas P. Rosandich in response to the poor performance of the U.S. Olympic team at the 1972 Munich Games. Dr. Rosandich aimed to improve sports coaching and education by creating a specialised institution dedicated exclusively to sports sciences, coaching, and administration.

In 1976, the academy relocated to Daphne, Alabama, becoming the only free-standing, accredited sports university in the United States. It expanded its academic offerings to include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees focused solely on sports education. Accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1981 confirmed the quality of its programmes.

In 1982, the academy established the American Sport Art Museum & Archives, celebrating the cultural significance of sports through art. Over time, it expanded globally, delivering distance learning programmes to over 60 countries and partnering with Olympic committees and sports organisations worldwide.

In 2025, the institution formally changed its name to United States Sports University, reflecting its growth and dedication to academic excellence. Today, USSU remains the only accredited, independent sports university in the U.S., continuing its mission to advance sports education and professional coaching worldwide.

The United States Sports University offers a range of courses focused exclusively on sports education, designed to prepare students for careers in coaching, sports management, sports medicine, and related fields. Its academic programmes include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees that cover areas such as coaching theory and practice, athletic training, sports psychology, sports administration, and physical education. The university also provides specialised certificate programmes for professionals seeking to enhance their skills in specific aspects of sports science and management. Courses are available both on-campus and through distance learning, allowing global access to its sports-focused curriculum. This comprehensive offering equips students with practical knowledge and leadership skills essential for advancing careers in the sports industry.

The United States Sports University is widely recognised as a leading institution in sports education and coaching development. While it may not typically appear in general university ranking lists due to its specialised focus, it holds a unique position as the only free-standing, accredited sports university in the United States. 

Its reputation in sporting development is built on decades of dedicated programmes, partnerships with Olympic committees, and contributions to coaching excellence worldwide. The university is regarded highly within the sports industry for its specialised curriculum, practical training, and global reach, making it a respected choice for those pursuing careers in sports coaching, administration, and athletic development.

Many alumni work closely with professional athletes and sports organisations, playing key roles in athlete training, management, and performance enhancement.

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Sports_University | Wikipedia
• https://ussa.edu/ | Official Website
• https://ussaeagles.com/ | Athletics Official Website
• https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/united-states-sports-academy-OEDU0748/education US News
• https://business.eschamber.com/list/member/united-states-sports-university-2992 | Eastern Shore
• https://www.topuniversities.com/where-to-study/north-america/united-states/best-us-universities-sports-lovers | Top Universities
• https://myfuture.com/schools-areas-of-study/schools/united-states-sports-academy/ | My future College
• https://www.fox10tv.com/video/2025/04/04/united-states-sports-university/ | Fox News