UAFS is transitioning into the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association this fall. Over the coming weeks, we are highlighting our new conference rivals so you know who the Lions are up against! This is your crash course in everything MIAA!

Emporia State Hornets

About the university (Short Bio):  

Joining the MIAA in 1991, the Emporia State Hornets have made a name for themselves with 15 varsity sports in which 11 have at least one conference championship, combining for 50 conference championships in total. The Lady Hornets basketball team won Emporia their only Division II national title back in 2010. Their only other appearance in the title game was in 1998. 

Emporia has always been vastly competitive in all of its sports, as the baseball program made an appearance in the Division II College World Series twice and won a national championship as an NAIA independent back in 1978.  

The newest sport to Emporia will be the Hornets' new Disc Golf teams. This sport was added due to the high volume of community support as there are currently 13 disc golf courses in Emporia, Kansas!  

Where Are They: Emporia, Kansas (1 Kellogg Cir, Emporia, KS 66801) 

Sports Offered:  

Men's Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Tennis, Track & Field, Disc Golf 

Women's Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball, Disc Golf 

University Size: 5,887 

Date Entered Conference: 1991 

Mascot: Corky the Hornet 

Colors: Black and Gold 

Previous Match ups (If any): The Lions and Hornets have faced off a few times in tennis and volleyball. Series history and most recent match ups are listed below. 

Men's Tennis: 0-2 (Last Match up 2018; ESU 8 – UAFS 1) 

Women's Tennis: 1-1 (Last Match up 2018; UAFS 8 – ESU 1) 

Volleyball: 2-1 (Last Match up 2018; UAFS 3 – ESU 1) 

Direction/Visiting Guides: 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/uHdZanyT8Q7cqXCU9 

Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours (about 320 miles). 

Things to Do in Emporia, Kansas 

1. David Traylor Zoo of Emporia: 

• A small but charming zoo located in Soden's Grove Park. It's a great place for families and features a variety of animals. 

2. Historic Downtown Emporia: 

• Explore the downtown area with its quaint shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Don't miss the Emporia Granada Theatre, a beautifully restored historic venue. 

3. William Allen White House State Historic Site (Red Rocks State Historic Site): 

• Visit the home of the famous journalist and editor William Allen White. The site offers tours and exhibits about his life and work. 

4. Peter Pan Park: 

• A large park offering playgrounds, walking trails, a splash pad, and picnic areas. Great for a relaxing day outdoors. 

Dining in Emporia 

• Radius Brewing Company: A popular brewpub offering craft beers and a diverse menu. 

• Bobby D's Merchant Street BBQ: Known for its delicious BBQ dishes. 

• Casa Ramos: A great spot for Mexican cuisine. 

Lodging Options 

• Hampton Inn Emporia: A comfortable and convenient option. 

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Emporia Northwest: Offers modern amenities and a good location. 

• Candlewood Suites Emporia: Ideal for longer stays with kitchenette facilities. 

Fun fact: Originally the team was known as the "Yaps" in 1923 but the Former men's basketball coach suggested the name "Yellow Jackets" before it was officially changed to Hornets.  

Notable Alumni: 

1. Ross Bjork: 

• Current Athletic director at Ohio State University, Previously at the University of Mississippi and Texas A&M University. 

2. Frank Anderson: 

• Former head baseball coach at Oklahoma State University, and currently an assistant baseball coach at the University of Tennessee 

3. Evan Lindquist: 

• Artist given Life Time Achievement Award by the Society of American Graphic Artists (SAGA) in 2010

Emporia State University Athletics