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!

Newman Jets 

About the university (Short Bio):

Newman University was founded in 1933 but would not begin competing in athletics until 1965. Now almost 60 years later, Newman is one of the newer members of MIAA, but more familiar to us here in Fort Smith than some of the other MIAA schools due to both schools' stint in the Heartland Conference before it dissolved at the end of the 2019 athletic year. Newman would join the MIAA as an associate member before becoming a full member in 2022. With UAFS joining the conference, the rivalry between the two schools can continue.

As for Newman's athletic history, it currently sponsors 19 varsity sports with varying success across them. Most notably, the Jets have multiple NCAA tournament appearances in men's basketball and bowling, along with numerous conference titles across all sports.

UAFS looks forward to taking on Newman University once again as an old Heartland Conference opponent!

Where Are They: Wichita, Kansas (3100 McCormick St, Wichita, KS 67213)

Sports Offered:

Men's Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, and Wrestling

Women's Sports: Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, and Volleyball

Co-ed Sports: Cheer, Dance and Esports

University Size: (Private: 2,623)

Date Entered Conference: 2022 (Associate Member 2019-2022)

Mascot: Johnny Jet

Colors: Navy and Red

Previous Match ups (If any):

            Men's Basketball: 11-7 (Last Match up 2019; NU 89 – UAFS 83)
            Women's Basketball: 11-9 (Last Match up 2019; NU 60 – UAFS 54)
            Men's Tennis: 3-5 (Last Match up 2019; NU 5 – UAFS 1)
            Women's Tennis: 7-2 (Last Match up 2024; UAFS 4 – NU 3)
            Volleyball: 20-2 (Last Match up 2019; UAFS 3 – NU 0)
            Baseball: 25-19 (Last Match up 2019; UAFS 2 – NU 1)

Direction/Visiting Guides:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KR46mC6Z6uXmykv1A

Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes (about 290 miles)

Things to Do in Wichita, Kansas

1. Sedgwick County Zoo:
   • One of the largest zoos in the United States, featuring over 3,000 animals. It's a great place for families and animal enthusiasts.
2. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens:
   • A beautiful botanical garden with over 30 themed gardens, including a butterfly garden, a Shakespeare garden, and a children's garden.
3. Old Cowtown Museum:
   • Step back in time and experience life in the 19th century at this living history museum, which includes restored buildings and costumed interpreters.
4. Exploration Place:
   • A science and discovery center offering interactive exhibits, an aviation exhibit, and a mini-golf course.
5. Wichita Art Museum:
   • Home to a significant collection of American art, with works by Mary Cassatt, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
6. Museum of World Treasures:
   • Discover artifacts from around the world, including mummies, dinosaur fossils, and military memorabilia.
7. Keeper of the Plains:
   • Visit this iconic 44-foot tall sculpture located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers. The area features a plaza with fire pots that are lit nightly.

Dining in Wichita

• Public at the Brickyard: Known for its farm-to-table approach, offering a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients.
• River City Brewery: A great place to enjoy craft beers and a diverse menu in a historic building.
• The Anchor: A popular gastro-pub offering a wide selection of beers and comfort food.

Lodging Options

• Hyatt Regency Wichita: Offers comfortable accommodations with amenities like an indoor pool and on-site dining.
• Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita: Known for its historic charm and modern comforts, including a pool and complimentary breakfast.
• Hotel at Old Town: Located in the heart of the Old Town district, this hotel offers a unique and convenient stay with modern amenities.

 
Fun fact: Newman is the only private school to be a member of the MIAA and 40% of the student population are student-athletes.

Notable Alumni:

1. Issoufou Idrissa:
   • Nigerien Soccer Striker
2. Clare Vanderpool:
   • Children's book author
3. Dax:
   • Rapper

Newman University Athletics