Gorilla Connection

Athletics

Pittsburg State University boasts a spirited sports culture. From the electric atmosphere of football games at Carnie Smith Stadium to the competitive edge of basketball and the camaraderie of intramural sports, Pitt State offers a diverse array of athletic opportunities for students. With a tradition of excellence and a passionate fan base, Pitt State Gorilla athletes bring together the campus community and foster a sense of pride in achievements both on and off the field.

Latest Stories

Athletics Lives Lived

October 8, 2026

Gorilla Nation mourns passing of Hall of Fame Football Coach Dennis Franchione

A former head football coach was remembered by many this week for instilling a tradition of excellence and inspiring countless coaches and players.

Members of the family pose on the field with Pitt State staff members holding awards on the football field

Alumni Athletics Community Campus

August 24, 2026

Pitt State plans activities for Family Day

Pittsburg State University will welcome families, supporters, and friends to campus for Family Day 2026 on Saturday, Sept. 5, with a variety of activities designed to celebrate...

A mom takes a cell phone shot of gus the gorilla posed up with a father holding a baby, and a son on the other side

Community Campus Athletics

August 21, 2026

Pittsburg, Pitt State gear up for annual Paint the Town Red Week

For the 21st year, Pittsburg will once again be awash in crimson and gold as the community prepares for Paint the Town Red Week, kicking off Monday, Aug. 24 and running through...

Two workers in a bucket truck install a large red sign in front of a building

Athletics Community

July 27, 2026

Legacy 1903: a new ticket, retail, and engagement space to open in former bank building

Building on the momentum of a newly announced partnership with Nike, Pitt State Athletics will open the doors soon to Legacy 1903, named for the year of the university’s...

artist's rendering of a new end zone facility at the north end of Carnie Smith Stadium, showing the exterior and interior of the building

Athletics Campus

May 28, 2026

Plans underway for new donor-funded end zone facility at Pitt State

A new facility designed to enhance the student-athlete experience, engage the community and alumni, and strengthen recruiting and retention efforts is being planned at Carnie...

A dedication ceremony on a new track with several people holding scissors and a long red ribbon

Alumni Athletics Campus Accolades

May 1, 2026

Legendary coach honored with naming of new outdoor track and field facility

Pittsburg State University officially named and dedicated its new outdoor track and field facility in a ceremony Friday evening, honoring one of the most accomplished and...

2 senior males install pacer lights on the indoor track and field

Academics Athletics People of Pitt State Campus

April 29, 2026

Pitt State seniors turn classroom project into cost-saving innovation for Track and Field program

What began as a senior design idea has become a game‑changing innovation for the Pittsburg State University Track and Field program, thanks to two graduating seniors in...

members of the golf team playing golf with a child at a school

Community Arts Athletics Campus

March 30, 2026

Students give back to the community through service

Pittsburg State University students are making a meaningful impact throughout the region by contributing their time and talents to schools, agencies, and organizations.

Kids in a construction summer camp building something

Alumni Athletics Campus Academics Arts Community

February 19, 2026

Youth have options for learning and fun at Pitt State summer camps

From football to music, construction to robotics, youth can pursue their passions at a variety of day camps hosted by Pittsburg State University.

Alumni Athletics Accolades

January 31, 2026

Pitt State Athletics recognizes honorees of Troop 1908 Award

Three impactful individuals have been chosen as honorees for the Troop 1908 award for their unwavering support of Pitt State Athletics.

Campus Alumni Athletics

January 30, 2026

Jim Johnson chosen for new executive position at Pitt State

A longtime transformational leader in the world of athletics has been promoted to a leadership role that will have profound ramifications on the university as it...

Athletics Alumni

January 30, 2026

Crespino named new VP of Pitt State Intercollegiate Athletics

From a “Bleacher Creature” in Carnie Smith Stadium as a child, to working as a D1 football coach, athletics has long been a central focus for Anthony...