A History of Kansas Wesleyan University Football
Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU), a prominent institution in Salina, Kansas, boasts a rich history interwoven with academic pursuits, athletic achievements, and community engagement. From its humble beginnings in 1886 to its current status as a leading small college athletic program, KWU has consistently evolved while staying true to its core values. This article delves into the history of the KWU football program, highlighting its key milestones, influential figures, and the evolution of its facilities.
The Early Years: Laying the Foundation (1885-1927)
The story of Kansas Wesleyan begins with the vision of the Northwest Kansas Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a predecessor of the United Methodist Church. In 1885, the conference successfully raised $3,500 to establish a new college. The following year, on September 15, 1886, the Administration Building opened its doors, welcoming a small but enthusiastic group of students: two college students (one senior and one freshman) and 61 preparatory class students, supported by 11 faculty members.
The early years of KWU were marked by growth and the establishment of key facilities. In 1904, the university opened its first residence hall, Schuyler Hall, named in honor of Dr. Aaron Schuyler, a beloved university founder and the institution's second president. Construction began on KWU's second academic facility, Carnegie Science Hall, in 1908, further solidifying the university's commitment to academic excellence.
The Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes football program made its first appearance in 1893 with a record of four wins and one loss. They would not field a team again until 1899 when the school played one game against Kansas State Agriculture College (now known as Kansas State University) and lost by a score of 17-5. The program continued every year until 1904 when the program was suspended for one year. The school did not field a team during the following years: 1894-1898, 1904, 1910-1913, 1918, and 1943-1945.
The KCAC Era and Beyond (1928-1957)
The year 1928 marked a significant turning point with the formation of the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC). Kansas Wesleyan joined Bethany College, Ottawa University, Baker University, McPherson College, and the University of St. Mary, solidifying its commitment to collegiate athletics.
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In the same year, Ruple Perkins, a running back for the Coyotes from Athens, OH, broke barriers as the first African-American to play college football in Kansas.
The construction of Pioneer Hall began in 1922, although the cornerstone was not laid until two years later. This new administration building was officially known as the Hall of the Pioneers. Much of the framework for the new building was completed by 1923. On March 29, 1924, the cornerstone laying ceremony took place with the deposit of a time capsule. The project was finished in late 1929, allowing for spring classes to take place in the building during 1930. On May 30, 1926 Sams Chapel was dedicated in honor of E.C. Sams’ parents.
Glenn Martin Stadium and the 1940 KCAC Championship (1940-1967)
In 1940, Glenn Martin Stadium was built with the assistance of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), providing valuable work experience for KWU students. One alumnus recalled studying Business Administration and playing football, stating, "We played the whole 60 minutes. The entire team was 20 players. We won the school’s first KCAC Championship in 1940. I also helped build Martin Stadium as a Works Project Administration project and got paid 25 cents an hour."
Glenn L. Martin Stadium served as the home field for Kansas Wesleyan University from its official name dedication in 1940 to its demolition in early 2014 to make way for the new Sports Complex. Martin Stadium was under lights with night games starting in 1983 and ending in October 2006.
The post-war era saw continued growth and development at KWU. In 1948, Memorial Library was built and dedicated to the 24 students who died in World War II, serving as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice.
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Expansion and Accreditation (1958-1987)
Kansas Wesleyan earned accreditation through the North Central Association, now called the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), in 1958, a testament to its commitment to academic standards and quality.
King Gymnasium, Kansas Wesleyan’s first permanent athletic facility, opened in 1916. Named for Dean Albert King, a KWU professor, administrator, and supporter, the gym contained a swimming pool, basketball court, lockers, and other facilities. The face of the beloved clock which graced the gym, was salvaged after a fire destroyed the gym in 1987.
Prior to 1948, the Kansas Wesleyan library was housed in Carnegie Hall. The cornerstone for Memorial Library was laid in 1948, and the building was dedicated to all Kansas Wesleyan students and families that lost their lives during World War II.
Modernization and New Programs (1988-2014)
In 1988, KWU expanded its academic offerings by acquiring the Asbury nursing program, located at Asbury-Salina Regional Medical Center.
Kansas Wesleyan played in American Family Insurance Charity Bowl on December 12, 2000, against rival Bethany.
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The Graves Family Sports Complex and Recent Developments (2015-2024)
The Graves Family Sports Complex stadium opened in October 2015, marking a new era for KWU athletics. This state-of-the-art facility replaced the aging Glenn Martin Stadium, providing a modern venue for football and other sports.
In 2024, Coyote Village, the university’s first new student housing in 60 years, opened alongside Bieber Hall (the new entrance to Sams Chapel) and Bieber Dining Hall, housing a renovated Shriwise Café. KWU also christened two new Criminal Justice labs (the Jack Wilson Forensic CSI Lab and the Jack Wilson Experiential Learning Center) and won its third straight KCAC Commissioner’s Cup, solidifying its status as one of the top small college athletic programs in the region.
The Presidential Mace, created by Lindsborg artist David Anderson, serves as a symbol of the legal and chartered authority of the President. It is carried at University functions by a distinguished member of the faculty.
On Monday, October 10, 2010, Kansas Wesleyan dedicated a bronze coyote in memory of Dan Bolen, who attended KWU from 1920-22 and remained a dedicated supporter of the university.
Coaching History
The Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes football program has a long and storied coaching history. The team has had 20 head coaches since its first recorded football game in 1903. The current coach is Myers Hendrickson, who assumed the role in early 2019.
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