Tar Heels

“Tar Heels” is a nickname for the athletic teams of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC). The origin of the term dates back to the Civil War when North Carolina troops were reputed to have “tar on their heels,” implying that they stood their ground in battle. Today, it symbolizes pride and loyalty among students, alumni, and fans associated with the university. The Tar Heels compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and are well-known for their successful basketball program, among other sports. The nickname reflects a strong sense of identity and tradition within the university community.