Newman to launch triathlon program

Newman University will soon be the first school in Kansas to have a triathlon team.

Newman formally announced in September it would start a triathlon program in the fall of the 2016-17 academic year. Athletics officials plan to hire coaches by January 2016.

“We won’t start competing until the following year, but we will start recruiting both for the men’s and the women’s team,” said Newman Director of Athletics Vic Trilli.

A triathlon is a three-part race that includes swimming, biking and running. Triathlons can be staged at varying distances. The sport provides unique challenges and teaches participants discipline, nutrition and personal goal-setting.

The idea to build a triathlon program began with the President’s Cabinet and discussion around the Newman campus. Newman officials also received interest from the city of Wichita and individuals who compete in triathlons.

Trilli said launching a triathlon program at Newman brings more opportunities to those in the area who are interested in the sport.

“A lot of people swim, bike and run, and with us fielding a team it will give students an opportunity to take their passion and represent Newman athletically,” he said.

Currently, triathlon teams at the college level compete as a
club sport. In the Midwest, 15 schools fielded teams this fall, including Iowa State, University of Iowa, Marquette University, University of Missouri, Drake and University of Minnesota. A national championship is held in spring.

“There has been talk about Newman hosting nationals in Wichita, and that would be pretty cool,” Trilli said.