K-State has a diverse range of sports programs that provide student athletes opportunities to compete at the NCAA Division I level in the Big 12 Conference while pursuing their academic goals. Central to K-State Athletics is the commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the field. Student-athletes are encouraged to embody values such as teamwork, perseverance and sportsmanship, serving as ambassadors for the university both in competition and in the community.

The passionate K-State fanbase plays a crucial role in the thriving Manhattan economy, as visitors travel in droves to support the Wildcats. Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Bramlage Coliseum, Buser Family Park, Tointon Family Stadium and Morgan Family Arena host thousands of fans on gamedays throughout the year. The fan support also leads to financial opportunities for student-athletes through Name, Image and Likeness deals.

 

In fiscal year 2023, K-State Athletics generated $486.1 million in economic impact on the state of Kansas.

 

Impacting the economy

Direct spending by K-State Athletics generates economic activity throughout the state. In fiscal year 2023, the direct spending of K-State Athletics, in combination with the indirect and induced impacts of dollars being re-spent throughout the economy, generated $486.1 million in overall economic impact to the state ($44.8 million in direct impact and $441.3 million in indirect and induced impact).

Supporting and sustaining jobs

In fiscal year 2023, K-State Athletics directly employed 949 individuals (full-time or part-time positions). This direct employment generates additional spending throughout the region and state that, in turn, supports additional indirect and induced jobs created when K-State Athletics, its employees and visitors spend in the region and state. In total, K-State Athletics supports 3,852 jobs throughout the region.

Strengthening local and statewide tax bases

State and local tax impacts attributable to K-State Athletics’ presence totaled approximately $26.2 million in fiscal year 2023.