Newman University joins NCAA Division II

Wichita Business Journal - 5:15 PM CDT Tuesday
by Bill Wilson

Newman University's athletic program has been formally accepted into the National Collegiate Athletic Association at the Division II level.

The school will join the Heartland Conference beginning with fall 2006 sports.

"This is a great day for Newman University," says Newman Board of Trustees Chairman John Marstall. "Our strong athletic programs build a sense of school and community pride. The move to NCAA Division II provides all Newman students with greater opportunities for a complete college experience."

The move makes Newman the only private university in Kansas in the NCAA. Newman will be admitted on a provisional basis, with a four-year transition process beginning in the 2006-07 school year.

Once complete, Newman will field NCAA entrants in men's and women's basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, baseball, softball and women's volleyball. Men's volleyball and wrestling will compete as NCAA independents.

Newman teams have already begun scheduling games against NCAA Division II opponents and joining the Heartland Conference, a league along an I-35 corridor.

"NCAA Division II membership is consistent with our mission and strategic plan," says Newman Athletic Director Kevin Ulwelling. "It allows us to align ourselves with respected Catholic and other faith-based institutions in the Heartland Conference, and gives us greater recruiting appeal, stronger academic progression and retention compliance for our student athletes."


Richard D. Salyer