MIU Athletics is entering a new phase of growth marked by new sports programs, key coaching hires, national affiliation, and expanded competitive opportunities for student-athletes.

The most significant development is MIU’s acceptance as a full member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA). This milestone allows Pioneer teams to compete for national championships while strengthening the university’s path toward future membership in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

“This achievement reflects the work we’ve done to build a strong foundation for MIU Athletics.”

— Rubén Sanchez, Athletics Director

“This achievement reflects the work we’ve done to build a strong foundation for MIU Athletics,” said Athletics Director Rubén Sanchez. “Joining the USCAA gives our student-athletes the chance to compete at a high level while continuing to grow our program with purpose.”

The USCAA serves small colleges and universities throughout the United States, providing championship competition and a flexible model for developing athletics programs. The affiliation will help establish the compliance and operational framework needed for long-term success while offering postseason opportunities in multiple sports.

Associate Athletics Director Owen Blake said the partnership aligns closely with MIU’s educational mission.

“The USCAA treats athletics as part of the educational experience, not separate from it,” Blake said. “That’s why we’re so excited to partner with them. At MIU, we develop student-athletes on every level, and now they have a national championship structure to test that development against.”

The association itself highlighted MIU’s Consciousness-Based Education model and commitment to academic excellence, leadership, service, and holistic student development as factors that distinguished the university during the membership process. USCAA Chief Executive Officer BJ Bertges called MIU “an outstanding addition” to the association and said the organization looks forward to supporting the continued growth of the athletics program. 

Expanding the sports offered

The announcement comes amid rapid expansion across the athletics department. Beginning this academic year, MIU will field teams in men’s soccer, women’s soccer, men’s basketball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s and women’s cross country, and esports.

One of the most notable additions is the university’s first-ever men’s and women’s cross-country program. Rafael Muniz, currently head coach of women’s soccer, will also lead the new running program.

“It is a pleasure and a huge responsibility representing MIU and the cross-country program in its first season,” Muniz said.

“It is a pleasure and a huge responsibility representing MIU and the cross-country program in its first season.”

— Rafael Muniz, cross country and women’s soccer coach

Muniz brings more than a decade of coaching experience and a background as a professional soccer player in Brazil. Blake praised his versatility and enthusiasm, saying, “Rafa’s unbounded energy and passion make him an inspiring coach and a natural fit to take on the role of head coach for our cross-country team.” 

Expanding the coaching staff

The Athletics Department has also strengthened its coaching staff with two experienced hires.

Walter Johnson has joined MIU men’s basketball as recruiting coordinator. Johnson brings professional playing experience and a coaching résumé that includes helping programs achieve conference championships, national rankings, and historic turnarounds at both the collegiate and high-school levels. Most recently, he helped lead East-West University during the 2025–2026 season to one of the most successful seasons in program history.

Johnson said MIU’s educational philosophy attracted him to the position.

“MIU’s emphasis on Consciousness-Based education and student well-being offers a unique setting where athletes can reach their full potential as competitors and as individuals.”

— Walter Johnson, recruiting coordinator for men’s basketball

“MIU’s emphasis on Consciousness-Based education and student well-being offers a unique setting where athletes can reach their full potential as competitors and as individuals,” he said. 

The tennis program has also added veteran coach Lawrence Eyre as assistant men’s and women’s tennis coach. A Yale University graduate and 30-year USPTA Elite Professional, Eyre brings decades of coaching experience, including positions at Grinnell College and Knox College. He was previously named National High School Coach of the Year while coaching at Maharishi School.

“Maharishi Pioneers invest in rest for tennis success,” Eyre said. “Twice daily TM builds a physiological foundation for peak performance. When athletes live in the zone, they play in the zone.” 

The upcoming season

Meanwhile, MIU’s teams are preparing for their upcoming seasons under the USCAA banner.

The men’s soccer program recently announced a 19-match schedule that includes six home contests and competition against several established collegiate programs. The season opens August 10 at Hawkeye Community College, followed by the university’s annual alumni game on August 13. 

Associate Head Coach Caio Pereira said the team enters the season with optimism.

“It’s a very exciting time for the men’s soccer team. We have a talented group of newcomers alongside a great group of returners ready to lead this team into a successful season.”

— Caio Pereira, Associate Head Soccer Coach

“It’s a very exciting time for the men’s soccer team,” Pereira said. “We have a talented group of newcomers alongside a great group of returners ready to lead this team into a successful season. We’re looking forward to playing some tough competition and showing off the Pioneer spirit.” 

The men’s tennis team has also announced a challenging fall schedule featuring competition against NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, and NAIA opponents. Head Coach Eric Sturgis said the schedule reflects the program’s long-term ambitions.

“As we embark on this tennis season, I am extremely excited to see our players compete with teams from NCAA Division II and NAIA as we look to transition to NAIA in the future,” Sturgis said. “We should be competitive this fall and have some experienced transfers to anchor our lineup.”

For MIU Athletics, these developments show a rapidly growing program focused on student development, competitive excellence, and MIU’s Consciousness-Based approach to education. As new teams take the field, court, and course this year, Pioneer student-athletes will have their first opportunity to compete on a national stage through USCAA competition and championship play.

Stay connected

Stay up to date with MIU Athletics — never miss a moment of the action:

• Facebook: Maharishi International University Athletics
• Instagram: @MIU.Athletics
• Youtube: MIU Athletics
• Website: www.miuathletics.com

Get MIU Athletics updates straight to your inbox — subscribe to the MIU Pioneers Newsletter and sign up for mobile alerts to receive news, scores, highlights, and more.

* * * * * * *

Maria Eduarda Rodrigues da Silva is the sports editor for MIU News and the Sports Information and Creative Director for the MIU Athletics Department.