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!

Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats  

About the university (Short Bio): 

As a founding member of the MIAA, there is plenty of history preceding the Bearcats. But Northwest Missouri has been on a tear in recent years, as it has won 14 national championships since 1998. Six of those came in football (1998, 1999, 2009, 2013, 2015, and 2016) while placing as the runner-up in 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008. Along with those titles, their cheer team has also won three Universal Cheerleaders Association Division II National Championships in 2010, 2012, and 2013 but even more recently, the Bearcats men's basketball team had a span of four national championships over five years in (2017, 2019, 2021 and 2022).  

In the 2016-17 season, the Bearcats would be the first Division II school to win a national championship in football and basketball in the same year. This had only been done previously by the Florida Gators in 2006-07. 

Where Are They: Maryville, Missouri (800 University Dr, Maryville, MO 64468) 

Sports Offered: 

Men's Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Tennis, and Track and Field 

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

University Size: 6,530 

Date Entered Conference: 1912 (Founding Member) 

Mascot: Bobby the Bearcat 

Colors: White and Green 

Previous Matchups (If any): 

Men's Tennis: 0-2 (Last Match up 2024; NWM 4 – UAFS 2) 

Women's Tennis: 1-1 (Last Match up 2024; NWM 4 – UAFS 0) 

Volleyball: 2-0 (Last Match up 2017; UAFS 3 – NWM 2) 

Baseball: 6-1 (Last Match up 2019; UAFS 11 – NWM 10) 

Direction/Visiting Guides: 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/HANvw7U7AKsLZLHT9 

Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes (about 370 miles). 

Things to Do in Maryville, Missouri 

1. Mozingo Lake Recreation Park: 

• Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, camping, and golfing. The park also has hiking trails and picnic areas. 

2. Northwest Missouri State University: 

• Visit the campus, which features the Missouri Arboretum, a beautiful collection of trees and plants. The university often hosts cultural and sporting events. 

3. Nodaway County Historical Society Museum: 

• Explore the history of Nodaway County through exhibits and artifacts at this local museum. 

4. Maryville Aquatic Center: 

• A great place for family fun with pools, water slides, and a lazy river. 

5. The Hangar: 

• An entertainment complex featuring bowling, an arcade, and a restaurant. 

Dining in Maryville 

• A&G Restaurant: A local favorite offering American and Greek cuisine in a casual atmosphere. 

• The Pub: Known for its delicious burgers, sandwiches, and friendly service. 

• Simply Siam: A great spot for Thai food, offering a variety of flavorful dishes. 

Lodging Options 

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Maryville: Offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities like an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast. 

• Country Hearth Inn Maryville: Known for its cozy rooms and good service. 

• Boulders Inn & Suites Maryville: A convenient option with comfortable rooms and friendly staff. 

Fun fact: In 1987, the university opened one of the first electronic campuses in the United States. 

Notable Alumni: 

1. Adam Dorrel: 

• 3x National Champion winning coach, 4x MIAA champion coach, and 3x AFCA NCAA DII Coach of the Year. 

2. Trevor Hudgins: 

• Point Guard for Houston Rockets 

3. Mel Tjeerdsma: 

• Northwest's 3x National Champion winning coach, 12x MIAA champion coach, 4x AFCA NCAA DII Coach of the Year, most winning DII post-season coach with 22 victories, Athletic Director 

Northwestern Missouri State University