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!

Pittsburg State Gorillas

About the university (Short Bio): 

Pittsburg State currently fields 12 varsity sports with a total of eight national championships with two coming in football (1991, and 2011) and the rest in either indoor or outdoor track and field. The Gorillas have won three men's outdoor national titles, all of which have been over the past three years (2022, 2023, and 2024), while the women have won two outdoor titles in 2016 and 2024. The men also have one indoor title from 2018. 

In the early 2000's, Pittsburg State would play Northwest Missouri State university in the Fall Classic in Arrowhead Stadium. This game had the highest attendance for any division II Football game in 2002 of 26,695 up until 2013 when that record was broken. 

As the Lions get ready to face off with the Gorillas as the move on the MIAA, we hope to form a competitive rivalry with the Gorillas! 

Where Are They: Pittsburg, Kansas (1701 S Broadway St, Pittsburg, KS 66762) 

Sports Offered: 

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

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

University Size: 7,102 

Date Entered Conference: 1989 

Mascot: Gus the Gorilla 

Colors: Crimson & Gold 

Previous Matchups (If any):  

Men's Basketball: 1-1 (Last Matchup 20181; PITT 79 – UAFS 71) 

Women's Basketball: 3-4 (Last Matchup 2018; PITT 79 – UAFS 57) 

Volleyball: 0-2 (Last Matchup 2023; PITT 3 – UAFS 0) 

Baseball: 3-0 (Last Matchup 2017; UAFS 8 – PITT 2) 

Direction/Visiting Guides: 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/vHZTakyMcYwndtDc6 

Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (about 140 miles). 

Things to Do in Pittsburg, Kansas 

1. Kansas Crossing Casino: 

• Enjoy gaming, live entertainment, and dining options at this popular casino. 

2. Pittsburg State University: 

• Visit the beautiful campus of PSU, which often hosts cultural and sporting events. The Bicknell Family Center for the Arts offers performances and exhibits. 

3. Crawford County Historical Museum: 

• Learn about the history of Crawford County through exhibits and artifacts showcasing the region's past. 

4. Immigrant Park: 

• A peaceful park dedicated to the immigrants who settled in Pittsburg. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk. 

5. ArtForms Gallery: 

• Explore local art at this cooperative gallery featuring works by regional artists, including paintings, pottery, and jewelry. 

6. Gorilla Village: 

• Located on the PSU campus, this area features the iconic bronze gorilla statue and serves as a hub for student activities and events. 

7. Lincoln Park: 

• A large park offering walking trails, sports facilities, a swimming pool, and picnic areas. It's a great place for outdoor activities. 

Dining in Pittsburg 

• Chicken Annie's Original: Famous for its fried chicken and comfort food, a local favorite for decades. 

• Harry's Café: Known for its delicious breakfast and lunch options in a cozy, diner-style setting. 

• The Mall Deli: A popular spot offering a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads. 

Lodging Options 

• Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburg/Kansas Crossing: Offers comfortable accommodations with amenities like an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast. 

• Lamplighter Inn and Suites: Known for its friendly service and convenient location. 

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pittsburg: Provides modern facilities and a comfortable stay with amenities like a fitness center and free breakfast. 

Fun fact: Pittsburg State is the only university with a Gorilla for a mascot. 

Notable Alumni: 

1. John Brown: 

• NFL Wide Receiver, Buffalo Bills 

2. Dennis Franchione: 

• Former head coach of Texas State University (and former coach of Pittsburg state) 

3. Kendall Gammon: 

• Former Kansas City Chiefs long snapper  

Pittsburg State Athletics