Newman University will add men’s and women’s track and field programs beginning competition in fall 2026, the school’s athletics department announced Friday.
The addition marks the first new sports programs at Newman since esports was introduced in 2023. The move will increase the university’s overall sport offerings from 18 to 20 and its NCAA-sponsored sports from 15 to 17.
“Newman Athletics is very excited to be adding track and field,” Athletic Director Kenyon Spears said. “This addition will continue to help grow the Newman brand as we look to continue showcasing our student athletes in the MIAA conference.”
Newman will become the 12th women’s track and field program and 11th men’s program in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA). The Jets will join conference members Central Missouri, Central Oklahoma, Emporia State, Fort Hays State, Missouri Southern, Missouri Western, Nebraska Kearney, Northwest Missouri, Pittsburg State, Rogers State and Washburn in sponsoring the sport.
Northeastern State announced in June it would launch track and field in 2027, which will bring the total number of MIAA track programs to 13.
Supports and enhances current programs
The new programs are intended to complement Newman’s existing cross country teams, giving distance runners year-round competition opportunities while creating new participation avenues for sprinters and field event athletes.
Immediate entry into MIAA track and field will allow Newman to compete for NCAA championship berths and conference awards in both athletics and academics.
New opportunity
Newman President Kathleen S. Jagger said the decision aligns with the university’s strategic vision.
“Part of the charge to our new athletic director was to evaluate and set priorities for our sport portfolio at Newman,” Jagger said. “This addition of track and field emerged as a part of that process, and we are excited to offer a new sport opportunity for athletes interested in a Newman education. This is an investment in our future students, our campus and the future of Newman Jets athletics.”
The university will immediately begin a nationwide search for a head track and field coach. Interested candidates can direct inquiries to [email protected].
