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!

Missouri Western State Griffons

About the university (Short Bio):  

Missouri Western State has competed in the MIAA since 1989 and currently offers 15 varsity sports, six men's and nine women's. They are the only member of the MIAA that sponsors a women's lacrosse team. Shortly before Missouri Western joined the conference in 1989, the Griffons won their first national championships in softball in 1984 and would follow this up by going back to the championship the next four years. Since then, Missouri Western has won multiple MIAA championships across multiple sports.  

The Lions look forward to more opportunities to play Missouri Western as we join the MIAA! 

Where Are They: St. Joseph, Missouri (4525 Downs Dr, St Joseph, MO 64507) 

Sports Offered:  

Men's Sports; Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, and Track & Field 

Women's Sports: Basketball, Cheer, Cross Country, Dance, Golf, Lacrosse, Softball, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, and Volleyball 

University Size: 5,388 

Date Entered Conference: 1989 

Mascot: Max the Griffon 

Colors: Black and Gold 

Previous Match ups (If any):  

Men's Basketball: 1-0 (Last Match up 2017; UAFS 73 – MWSU 58) 

Women's Tennis: 1-0 (Last Match up 2019; UAFS 5 – MWSU 2) 

Volleyball: 2-1 (Last Match up 2018; MWSU 3 – UAFS 0) 

Baseball: 3-1 (Last Match up 2019; MWSU 11 – UAFS 1) 

Directions/Visiting Guides: 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/x48fKvsifKSMi8hr9 

Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours (about 350 miles). 

Things to Do in St. Joseph, Missouri 

1. Pony Express National Museum: 

• Learn about the history of the Pony Express, which started in St. Joseph, and explore exhibits on this fascinating chapter of American history. 

2. Glore Psychiatric Museum: 

• Visit one of the most unusual museums in the country, showcasing the history of mental health treatment with exhibits that are both informative and intriguing. 

3. Jesse James Home Museum: 

• See the house where the infamous outlaw Jesse James was killed, which has been preserved as a museum detailing his life and death. 

4. Missouri Theater: 

• Check out this beautifully restored historic theater which hosts various performances, including concerts, plays, and other events. 

5. Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art: 

• Explore a fine collection of American art from the 18th century to the present. The museum also offers various exhibitions and educational programs. 

6. Remington Nature Center: 

• Discover exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the region, along with walking trails and beautiful views of the Missouri River. 

Dining in St. Joseph 

• Boudreaux's Louisiana Seafood & Steaks: Known for its Cajun cuisine and seafood dishes. 

• Pappy's Grill & Pub: Great for casual dining with American fare and a friendly atmosphere. 

• IL Lazzarone Neapolitan Pizzeria: Relaxed, industrial-chic restaurant & bar serving wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, plus beer & wine. 

Lodging Options 

• Drury Inn & Suites St. Joseph: Offers comfortable accommodations and amenities like a pool and complimentary breakfast. 

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites St. Joseph: Known for its modern facilities and good service. 

• Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center: A comfortable and convenient option with rustic decor and modern amenities. 

Fun fact: The Kansas City Chiefs have hosted summer training camps at MWSU since 2010 when they helped fund a 15.7 million dollar facility on campus. 

Notable Alumni: 

1. Charles Bruffy: 

• Grammy Award-winning artistic director of the Kansas City Chorale and chorus director of the Kansas City Symphony. 

       2. Esther George: 

• Former CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City 

Missouri Western State University Athletics