Maharishi International University Athletics has been officially accepted as a full member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association, marking a significant milestone for the Fairfield university’s growing athletics program, according to a press release from MIU.
The USCAA is a national athletic association that serves small colleges and universities across the country, providing championship opportunities, national competition, and a flexible scheduling model that supports developing athletics programs. MIU is currently the only institution in Iowa to hold membership in the USCAA. For MIU, membership creates a competitive platform while helping establish the compliance, eligibility, and operational framework necessary for sustained growth. The university’s long-term goal remains full NAIA membership.
MIU Athletics Director Rubén Sanchez called the acceptance a reflection of the program’s foundation-building work. “This milestone reflects the work we’ve done to build a strong foundation for MIU Athletics,” Sanchez said. “Joining the USCAA gives our student-athletes the opportunity to compete at a high level while continuing to grow our program with purpose.”
Associate Athletics Director Owen Blake said the USCAA’s philosophy aligns closely with MIU’s approach to athletics. “The USCAA treats athletics as part of the educational experience, not separate from it, and they support student-athletes at smaller schools by providing real competitive opportunities and national recognition,” Blake said. “At MIU, we develop student-athletes on every level, and now they have a national championship structure to test that development against. We’re ready for the challenge and the opportunity, and we’re excited to elevate the student-athlete experience through joining the USCAA.”
USCAA Chief Executive Officer BJ Bertges welcomed MIU to the association. “MIU’s commitment to developing the whole student through academic excellence, personal growth, and meaningful athletic opportunities makes them an outstanding addition to our Association,” Bertges said. “We look forward to supporting their continued growth and providing championship opportunities for their student-athletes as they build the future of their athletics program.”
Beginning this academic year, MIU will compete 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. The acceptance comes during a period of significant momentum for the program — over the past year MIU has expanded its varsity offerings, welcomed nationally accomplished coaches, increased student-athlete enrollment, and announced a partnership with Nike and BSN Sports.
Men’s soccer associate head coach Caio Pereira expressed enthusiasm for what the membership means for his program. “Joining the USCAA is a tremendous opportunity to establish our presence in collegiate athletics,” Pereira said. “Our team is ready to put in the work, embrace the challenge, and make the most of this opportunity.”
Women’s soccer and cross country head coach Rafael Muniz echoed that sentiment. “I’m incredibly excited that our teams will have the opportunity to compete in the USCAA during this first year,” Muniz said. “It gives our student-athletes the chance to compete at a high level while continuing to grow both as athletes and as individuals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for our entire program.”
Competition schedules and championship opportunities will be announced as MIU Athletics prepares for the upcoming academic year.
