a previous stint from 1902–1903 to December 1928 (of the 1928–1929 school year). They are also a member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), primarily competing as an independent in the Central Region of the Division I level.
Sterling competes in 23 intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, powerlifting, soccer, swimming, tennis and track & field (indoor and outdoor); while women's sports include basketball, cross country, golf, powerlifting, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field (indoor and outdoor) and volleyball; and co-ed sports include cheerleading.
== Notable people ==
=== Faculty ===
Stephen Carls, taught at Sterling College for twelve years
=== Alumni ===
Clarence Gilyard, actor
Brett Fairchild, member of the Kansas House of Representatives
David Hahn, Nebraska politician
Lorene Harrison, musician, educator
Waldo McBurney, centenarian (transferred to K-State after two years)
Windell Middlebrooks, …
