2025 Athletic News

National Spotlight

The OKWU Men’s Basketball team delivered an unforgettable 28-8 season, finishing as the NAIA National Championship runner-up and securing their fourth consecutive KCAC Regular Season Championship, a testament to the program’s consistency and strength.

Year of Athletic Excellence

OKWU Athletics had a landmark year with 62 student-athletes earning All-KCAC honors and 13 named NAIA All-Americans across five sports. New sports launching in Fall 2025 include Men’s Volleyball, led by Head Coach Kyle Liechti, and Women’s Flag Football and Cheer, led by Head Coach Darian Pleasant. Fueled by teamwork and a mission to glorify God, the Eagles continue building a legacy of excellence.

Team Success

OKWU teams dominated the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference this year, with Men’s and Women’s Soccer both claiming regular season titles for the fifth and sixth times, respectively. Coaches Jamie Peterson and Ivan Ristic were named KCAC Coaches of the Year.

Wrestling was named KCAC Team of Character and sent two athletes to nationals.

Women’s Volleyball posted a stellar 31-4 record and earned their second KCAC title. Coach Tracie Gillette and Assistant Jon Updyke both took home KCAC coaching honors.

Men’s Basketball finished 28-8 as NAIA National Championship runner-Up, earning a fourth straight KCAC title. Women’s Basketball had its strongest season in three years, led by two All-Conference players.

Baseball went 47-11, won the KCAC title, and advanced to NAIA Opening Rounds. Coach Kirk Kelley was named KCAC Coach of the Year.

Softball (33-18) placed fifth in conference with an All-Region honoree, while Beach Volleyball earned four All-Conference nods.

Track & Field standout Natalia Quiroz broke the 3,000m steeplechase record twice, won the KCAC title, and placed 8th nationally. She also qualified for Cross Country nationals. The teams welcomed new Coach Charlie Young this year.

Women’s Golf finished as KCAC runner-up and welcomed new Coach Andrew VanWinkle.

Women’s Tennis made history with their first national tournament appearance, finishing 19-5 and ranked #19 nationally. Coach Julia Mongin was named KCAC Coach of the Year.