Tugs

Tugs is a deeply rooted tradition held in the NIU Greek life community, carried on for over 50 years. This event is a philanthropy, with all donations going to different local organizations every year. Considered one of the most aggressive and brutal tug of war tournaments in the country, NIU Tugs is one of the longest-standing traditions held by NIU and is a cherished tradition amongst NIU's fraternities and sororities. Women's Tugs is held in the Fall while Men's Tugs is held in the Spring. These competitors will practice for 14 weeks to have a chance to call themselves "Tugs Champions". Upon our recolonization in 2006 with only 16 men, Sigma Nu "taped up" and tugged in the Men's Tugs tournament in the Spring of 2007 (and promptly lost every match). While the first season ended in failure, this started a new tradition in our house that has been grown into our fraternity holding the second longest winning streak in NIU history (and the longest winning streak in the last 20 years). Sigma Nu is the reigning 4-time champion and is committed to continuing the streak in the spring of 2025.

Sigma Nu Tugs Accomplishments

WON 4 YEARS IN A ROW AND COUNTING

2024 - Champions (1st)

2023 - Champions (1st)

2022 - Champions (1st)

2021 - No tournament - Covid

2020 - No tournament - Covid

2019 - Champions (1st)

4-Peat Champions

In 2024 Sigma Nu won it's fourth consecutive tugs championship in a row, which is the longest winning streak of any fraternity currently at NIU and the second longest in the history of the university.

Why Tugs?

It centers around a common purpose, whether it's winning championships, breaking records, or simply putting on a show. Successful teams pass down a legacy—a tradition of resilience, rituals, and shared memories. In essence, a Tugs team with brotherhood is more than a collection of athletes—it's a resilient, enduring, and challenging endeavor.

2019 Hype Video

2022 Hype Video

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