Newman University Athletics and Potter Family Share in Court Dedication Celebration

WICHITA, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Newman University men’s basketball coach, Mark Potter, his wife Nanette, and members of the Potter family joined Newman University President, Dr. Noreen Carrocci, and more than 1,000 fans for the dedication of Newman’s home court in Fugate Coliseum as “Potter Family Court.” The Potter family was honored during pregame ceremonies on Saturday, February 2, 2013 for nearly three decades of commitment to the University, student-athletes, and the Central Kansas community. Potter, from Sedan, KS first joined Newman as a two-sport student-athlete, playing both basketball and baseball for the Jets from 1983 through 1986. He then served as an assistant coach for the Jets for two seasons before going on to a successful career as a high school coach after Newman dropped basketball in 1987. Potter resurrected the program 15 seasons ago, and has won more games than any other coach in Newman basketball history leading the Jets to several national tournaments at the NAIA level. Since transitioning to NCAA Division II, five seasons ago, Potter has guided the Jets to the Heartland Conference Tournament in all four years they have been eligible. Newman University has consistently led their conferences in graduate rates and grade point average for their student-athletes during that period. Mark and his wife, Nanette have two children. Chelsey, a Newman University graduate and stand-out volleyball player for the Jets, who now serves the University as an admissions representative, and son Zechariah, a graduate of Wichita State University and professional golfer.

After the dedication, the Newman men’s basketball team used a strong second half performance to defeat Dallas Baptist, 78-67. The Jets upped their record to 16-3 and 6-2 in the Heartland Conference.

The Newman University athletic department has begun a fund-raising campaign to also honor the family with an endowed scholarship and for the improvement of facilities for Newman’s student athletes. Donation can be made online at http://newmanjets.com/potterfamilycourt.aspx. Individuals or organizations that make donations of $200 or more will receive a limited-edition, miniature replica of Potter Family Court.