Wichita State University (WSU) once had a proud football tradition, but since the program was discontinued in 1986, the city of Wichita has lacked a Division I college football team. We, the undersigned, urge WSU leadership and Kansas state officials to bring football back to Shockers athletics and restore a vital piece of our community’s sports culture.

Why This Matters

1. Revitalizing Wichita’s Sports Scene

Football is more than just a game it’s a unifying force that brings students, alumni, and the entire community together. A revived WSU football program would boost school spirit, enhance campus life, and provide an exciting new sports option for local fans who currently have to travel to other cities for Division I college football.

2. Economic Growth and Job Creation

A football program would bring significant economic benefits to Wichita. Home games would attract thousands of fans, increasing revenue for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retailers. Additionally, the program would create jobs in coaching, sports management, and facility operations, helping to strengthen the local economy.

3. Opportunities for Local Athletes

The state of Kansas produces talented high school football players, yet many are forced to leave the state or attend out-of-town programs to continue playing at the collegiate level. By reinstating football at WSU, local athletes would have more opportunities to compete at the Division I level while staying close to home.

4. Enhancing WSU’s National Presence

A football program would raise the national profile of Wichita State University, attracting more students, boosting enrollment, and increasing alumni engagement. It would also create new opportunities for scholarships, academic investments, and athletic development.

We believe the time is now to bring back Shocker football! Wichita has grown tremendously since the program was discontinued, and the community is ready to support a team. Let’s rally together to make this happen and show our university leadership that there is overwhelming support for WSU football’s return.

Sign this petition today and help bring football back to Wichita State!