WICHITA - Kurt McDonald has been selected as the first head coach in Newman Esports history, Athletic Director Joanna Pryor announced Tuesday. McDonald announced that the Jets program will begin with competition in Rocket League on PC and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on Nintendo Switch. The Jets are set to open competition during the 2023-24 season.
 
McDonald is no stranger to Kansas or the competitive Esports scene. Residing in Wichita, McDonald holds multiple degrees from Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas.  McDonald previously competed in Esports while playing Halo 2 and the Street Fighter series.  McDonald plans to increase the number of games offered in future seasons. "My goal for this program is to expand and grow over the next 5-10 years to be its own division of Newman Athletics," said McDonald.
 
Esports is the first program added by Newman Athletics since the debut of triathlon in the 2016-17 season. Recruiting is underway both for the upcoming launch of the program this fall and for incoming freshmen to begin in the fall of 2024. McDonald says the program can help a wider range of students feel pride for the Navy & Red. "I want to create this opportunity for students to be able to support their education by participating in a school activity and have school pride without having to be a traditional athlete," said McDonald.
 
McDonald says the opportunity to begin an Esports program at a school like Newman is especially exciting. "I love higher education and I love video games. I've written several journal articles on biblical leadership so coaching at a Christian institution helps me combine my professional self and my spiritual self," said McDonald.
 
McDonald's goal is to build a roster of up to 15 players for the inaugural season this fall with plans to continue adding roster spots in future seasons. McDonald also plans to add games to the esports program as the roster expands. Prospective players interested in being recruited to Newman Esports can reach McDonald at mcdonaldk@newmanu.edu or by calling Newman Athletics at (316) 942-4291 at extension 2118.