CEDAR FALLS, IA
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2025
News Editor
UNI students bring campus architecture to life through sesquicentennial walking tours
By Lily Munnik News Editor
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on InsideUNI on Oct. 3, 2025.
As part of the University of Northern Iowa’s Sesquicentennial Celebration, UNI history students are stepping into the role of campus historians, guiding architectural walking tours that showcase 150 years of campus history and design.
Each stop offered participants not just architectural detail, but also insight into how the university has grown and changed across the decades. Whether it was the gothic revival design of Seerley Hall or the stately elegance of the President’s House, the buildings provided a lens into UNI’s past and future.
The tours originated from UNI’s Introduction to Public History course, taught by Kevin Mason, professor of history. Students in the class spent weeks researching building histories and learning how to present them in engaging ways for the public. Mason said the project is an oppor-
tunity for students to take history outside the classroom.
“I think these tours are important because it allows students to get out and practice a practical skill,” Mason said. “It’s a way to take some of what we talk about in the classroom and bring it out into the world. Doing live interpretation, understanding the campus and also being able to help other organizations makes it more than just an academic exercise.”
For many students, the project became a way to see familiar places with new eyes.
“There’s a lot of architectural knowledge about the buildings shared, and it’s very interesting,” said UNI student Emma Holmes. “It’s also a good way to learn more about the campus.”
History student Ellie Borrenpohl said the tours reveal how architecture reflects UNI’s broader history.
“These tours are important because it’s important to know the history of these buildings,” Borrenpohl said. “They indicate overall trends in UNI’s history that help us predict how these buildings may be used in the future. This campus is 150 years old, and it’s important because you can definitely see the age of the architecture on all of these buildings. There are no two buildings on this campus that are quite the same.”
By highlighting both the beauty and historical significance of campus architecture, the tours give participants a deeper appreciation for UNI’s legacy. For students, the experience also builds confidence and public history skills they can carry into future careers.
“This is the kind of hands-on learning UNI does best,” Mason said. “It’s about connecting knowledge with the community, and that’s what makes these tours meaningful.”
NORTHERN IOWAN
L011 Maucker Union Cedar Falls, IA 50614 www.northerniowan.com northern-iowan@uni.edu 319.273.2157
ESTELLE JOHNSON Executive Editor johnsecr@uni.edu 319.290.4955
JENNA WESTENDORF Managing Editor westejac@uni.edu 515.776.0176
EDITORIAL STAFF
LILY MUNNIK News Editor munnikl@uni.edu
COHEN KAMAUS Sports Editor kamausc@uni.edu
MICHAEL SPAHN Assistant Sports Editor spahnm@uni.edu
LUIS ALVAREZ Spanish Editor alvarlaa@uni.edu
MACI SWANSON Head Photographer maciswan@uni.edu
“This is the kind of handson learning UNI does best. It’s about connecting knowledge with the community and that’s what makes these tours meaningful.”
Kevin Mason UNI professor of history
COHEN HUISMAN Campus Life Editor huismcaa@uni.edu
JENNA WESTENDORF Webmaster
ANELIA DIMITROVA anelia.dimitrova@uni.edu
CHRIS MARTIN christopher.martin@uni.edu
BETHANY WINGET Circulation
The Northern Iowan is published weekly on Wednesday during the academic year, except for holidays and examination periods, by the University of Northern Iowa, L011 Maucker Union, Cedar Falls, IA 506140166 under the auspices of the Board of Student Publications. Advertising errors that are the fault of the Northern Iowan will be corrected at no cost to the advertiser only if the Northern Iowan office is notified within seven days of the original publication. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement at any time. The Northern Iowan is funded in part with student activity fees. All material is © 2025 by the Northern Iowan and may not be used without permission.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters must be less than 300 words in length and are subject to editing. Not all submissions will be printed. Send submissions to northerniowan@uni.edu.
SEND US STORY IDEAS
Tell us what’s happening on campus. Email submissions to northern-iowan@uni.edu.
Do you want to have an event listed here? Email us at northern-iowan@uni.edu with information about the event to have it featured.
LILY MUNNIK
Lily Munnik/Northern Iowan UNI students guide tours through campus, sharing the history of UNI’s architecture.
Courtesy photo by InsideUNI Participants of the tour stop to take photos and listen to the history of Seerley Hall.
Lily Munnik/Northern Iowan Students gather in Seerley Hall to learn about the murals along the walls.
Rod Library celebrates 60 years From print to digital, Rod remains central to UNI’s campus
By Sam O’Hair Staff Writer
Amidst an action-packed homecoming week, Rod Library, located at the center of the University of Northern Iowa’s campus, celebrated its 60th anniversary on Friday, Oct. 3.
Rod Library’s staff welcomed faculty and students to an open house to honor the library’s history. Refreshments, a photo booth and warm hospitality were offered – encouraging Panthers to stop by and enjoy a head start to the weekend.
For some, the library is their go-to spot for quiet studying — for others, it’s a place to meet with friends or grab a quick coffee before a lecture.
Friday’s anniversary reflected how the space impacts life at UNI.
“The idea is to have a joyful moment,” said Holly Schneiders, now serving her sixth year as an administrative assistant for Rod Library. “To celebrate that it’s still here, it’s still needed, it’s still delivering what it should for campus, for students, for faculty.”
While the mission of serving campus needs has stayed consistent, the library’s methods have evolved with time. As one may expect, Rod has seen a gradual shift from printed material to online resources throughout its life – a change cel-
ebrated by the library.
With that shift, library staff have particularly emphasized a change in accessibility,
“Having those digital resources is a huge benefit because they are accessible to everybody,” Schneiders explained. “We’re leaning more towards getting the electronic resources and making those available for students, because that is what’s needed.”
The Rod Library’s history of innovating accessibility to resources shouldn’t outshine its efforts to aid students in several areas of campus life. The Book Bistro, The Learning Center and the University Archives all exemplify its commitment to enhance the experience here at UNI.
As it marks 60 years of service, the Rod Library honors a history of serving our campus community, while looking forward to its future. The anniversary celebration reminded students and faculty that, whether through books, an espresso or an overnight cramming session, Rod Library will continue to be a special place for learning and connection.
150th Class SPOTLIGHT
Makaela Lloyd finds leadership roles through exploring options
By Kaylynn Ruffin Staff Writer
Editor’s Note: UNI is marking its 150th anniversary this academic year. As the newspaper of record on campus, the Northern Iowan is showcasing a weekly feature profiling members of the sesquicenten-
Makaela Lloyd is a part of the 150th class at the University of Northern Iowa. She is from Grinnell, Iowa, majoring in interactive digital studies with a minor in public relations. Lloyd has an interest in working in strategic communications and the social media industry.
After graduating from high school in 2024, Lloyd struggled to find an interest. She started her academic journey at Des Moines Area Community College, taking online classes, with only one in-person lab. After touring schools to transfer to, she was having trouble finding a place that felt like home.
“I told myself I need to figure out what I want to do,” said Lloyd. “I just need to go, because if I don’t go, I will probably never go.”
Now she has found herself enjoying the aspects of living in the dorms on UNI’s campus and becoming a Panther.
Lloyd was very excited to get involved on
campus and fully immerse herself in the Panther experience. She joined a variety of student organizations on campus, including Chi Alpha and Dance Marathon
“A few months ago, I would have been shocked at what I am doing now, “ said Lloyd. “I wanted to make sure I did everything possible to explore my options when I got to UNI.”
After exploring opportunities on campus, she became the fall media executive chair for the student organization Colleges Against Cancer. In this role, she will be doing the social media posts, graphics and flyers to be put up around campus.
Lloyd also reflects on the Panther Welcome Week experience — getting to hang out with the squirrels on campus and meeting new people helped her feel at home.
“I have never grown so much in one week,” she said. “I am glad they have these events; they are needed. It was such a great experience.”
Sam O’Hair/Northern Iowan Library staff gathers for the Rod Library, Then and Now event that took place Friday, Oct. 3.
Courtesy Photo Makaela Lloyd is a first-year student at UNI majoring in interactive digital studies with a minor in public relations.
N.I. EN ESPAÑOL
Editores del Northern Iowan se reúnen con el Presidente de la UNI, Mark Nook
Escrito por Estelle Johnson Editor ejecutivo
Escrito por Jenna Westendorf Editor gerente
Traducido por Luis Alvarez Editor de espanol
En 1876, the Iowa State Normal School abrió sus puertas por primera vez, con una matrícula de solo 88 estudiantes. A partir de ahí, experimentaría varios cambios de nombre, y ahora es conocida como la Universidad del Norte de Iowa, con más de 9,000 estudiantes inscritos actualmente.
La editora ejecutiva del Northern Iowan, Estelle Johnson, y la editora gerente, Jenna Westendorf, se reunieron con el Presidente de la UNI, Mark Nook, en el estudio de televisión de Lang Hall el viernes 12 de septiembre. Allí, los tres conversaron sobre el aniversario del sesquicentenario, los eventos del homecoming y otros asuntos universitarios.
Nook compartió con las editoras que sigue esperando
con interés honrar el orgulloso pasado de la universidad y celebrar un futuro audaz mientras UNI celebra su sesquicentenario y el homecoming.
Los preparativos para la celebración del sesquicentenario comenzaron en 2017. Ese año, UNI celebró 50 años como institución, y el
de un año completo; lo más importante, cómo honrar el pasado de la universidad. "No llegaríamos a 150 años si no hubiéramos tenido personas construyendo una institución muy sólida para nosotros", declaró Nook. "Una institución que ha sorteado algunas tormentas, algunos altibajos y
La gente sabe quién soy, pero el trabajo en realidad lo hacen muchas otras personas.”
– MARK NOOK Presidente universitario
que ha tenido algunos picos realmente altos".
El Presidente Nook dejó
claro que el trabajo que realiza no sería posible sin la colaboración de muchos líderes de la UNI. Personal de mantenimiento, trabajadores de servicios de alimentos, profesores y más: todos en la UNI cumplen su función para hacerla especial. "Siempre hay tanta atención en lo que pasa cuando un líder en particular está aquí... pero el trabajo lo realiza todo el campus", dijo Nook. "La gente sabe quién soy yo, pero el trabajo en realidad lo hacen muchas otras personas".
Nook espera celebrar junto a estudiantes, profesores y personal de la UNI. Nook añadió: "Poder ser parte de lo que hace cada persona en este campus, la forma en que la gente celebra, lo que recuerdan y en lo que piensan para nuestro futuro, en lo que piensan y trabajan nuestros profesores y personal, y lo que hicieron para sentar este camino en primer lugar".
Este año del sesquicentenario presenta tradiciones antiguas de nuevas maneras, como honrar a los grandes contribuyentes de UNI en el Gallagher
Bluedorn, en lugar de la ubicación típica, el Maucker Union. Nook añadió: "La fundación y los exalumnos celebran a nuestros donantes más importantes durante una gran celebración en noviembre, y la hemos trasladado a la semana del homecoming para poder honrarlos en esas fechas".
Las celebraciones del homecoming tendrán lugar este fin de semana, el viernes 3 y el sábado 4 de octubre. Se invita y alienta a los estudiantes a participar en la gran variedad de eventos que ocurrirán esta semana. Nook recuerda a los estudiantes que la universidad es un lugar extremadamente único y los alienta a involucrarse y a aprovechar las oportunidades que tienen. Desde un baile nocturno hasta los juegos deportivos de la UNI, el homecoming tiene algo para que cada estudiante disfrute. Encuentra el calendario completo de eventos en https:// homecoming.uni.edu/.
Presidente Nook buscó plantar las bases para lo que pronto se convertiría en una celebración
Josue Villatoro/Northern Iowan
Mark Nook fijado “No llegamos a 150 años si no hubiéramos tenido personas construyendo una institución muy sólida para nosotros.”
The WNBA needs a reboot, and Cathy Engelbert needs to resign
By Jenna Westendorf Digital Managing Editor
As the WNBA 2025 season comes to an end, there is a lot to be proud of. In the 2024 season, the league generated over $200 million in revenue, with projections for the 2025 season even higher.
All-Star weekend brought moments like the Minnesota Lynx Courtney Williams and Natisha Heidman’s infamous ‘Stud Budz’ 72-hour Twitch livestream, Paige Buecker’s hard launch of her relationship with former UConn teammate Azzi Fudd, Napheesa Collier’s record-breaking 36-point performance and the anthem of the weekend ‘Pink Pony Club’.
That being said, not everything about the league is as good as it seems.
Injuries affected teams at a record-breaking rate all season long. It seemed like every other day someone was going down with an injury, many of them season-ending.
The Indiana Fever and Dallas Wings took the heat of it, with the Fever signing practically a whole new roster after stars Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, Sydney Colson and Aari McDonald all suffered season-ending injuries.
At one point, the Wings had to sign players to an “extreme hardship contract”
after barely having enough players available to meet the eight-player minimum.
However, many of these injuries have come at the expense of inconsistent referees. After unanticipated growth from stars Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers joining the league, the league has quickly become too physical.
Inconsistent calling from the refs, resulting in injured players, has led to frustration across the league and from fans alike.
The most recent and possibly notable example of this comes from the Minnesota Lynx Game 3 loss to the Phoenix Mercury on Sept. 26. After Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas made hard contact with Lynx star Napheesa Collier’s leg, there was no call on the play.
Following the play, Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve stormed onto the court, with word choices and actions on the court and after the game that inevitably led to a record $15,000 fine and a one-game suspension.
Collier was also ruled out of Game 4 with a leg injury, and the Lynx were shockingly eliminated from the playoffs in an 86-81 loss.
Additionally, the WNBA player pay gap is unfair, and the players deserve to be paid
equally. Clark’s 2024 rookie salary was approximately $76,535, while Collier’s salary was $214,284.
While that may seem like a lot, it’s not in comparison to NBA player salaries. Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry’s 2025 salary was a whopping $59.61 million, and Iowa State alum and Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton’s salary was $45.55 million.
WNBA players have long fought for equal pay, yet despite the league’s continued growth, changes to salaries are nowhere to be found.
After the Lynx’s unexpected loss in the semifinals, Collier made a statement addressing the ongoing issues in the league at the Lynx’s exit interview.
“The real threat to our league isn’t money, it isn’t ratings, or even missed calls, or even physical play. It’s the lack of accountability from the league office,” Collier stated.
She went on to discuss conversations had in February with league commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
When asked about how Engelbert planned to address the inconsistency in refereeing, she reportedly stated, “Well, only the losers complain about the refs.”
Additionally, when asked about why rookie salaries
were so low, she reportedly stated, “Caitlin should be grateful she makes $60 million off the court because without the platform the WNBA gives her, she wouldn’t make anything.”
Several players have also reported that following injuries in the regular season, they received countless getwell wishes from other players and coaches, but never once heard from Engelbert.
As Collier stated, “The players go to battle every day to protect a shield that doesn’t value them back.”
Following Collier’s statement, many fellow WNBA players have also spoken out regarding upper leadership, backing Collier. Fever star Sophie Cunningham went as far as to say players would propose a lockout until they [players and coaches] receive the treatment they deserve.
As the commissioner of the league, you should be backing your players and coaches and also addressing the issues at hand.
Being able to confidently say that a player who rose to fame before coming to the league ‘wouldn’t have anything‘ without the platform the WNBA gives her, or that only losers complain about the refereeing, is shocking and disappointing.
Following comments from Collier and other players, Engelburt made a statement of her own at a press conference prior to Game 1 of the WNBA finals. Engelbert stated that she has the “utmost respect for Napheesa and every single player in our league [WNBA],” and was disheartened to hear that some of those players feel she doesn’t care about them or listen to them.
She also claimed that her alleged statement about Clark was false and denied ever saying it. Collier and Engelburt were scheduled to meet on Tuesday, Oct. 7, but sources reported that following Engelbert’s statement, Collier cancelled the meeting.
Despite criticism and harsh comments from players, coaches and fans all season long, Engelbert and upper leadership have ignored these issues and instead issued fines and suspensions. It is clear where her priorities are, and someone who walks around with that mindset does not deserve to be in a leadership position.
Cathy Engelbert should highly consider resigning from her position for the betterment of her reputation and the WNBA as a whole.
Graphic by Estelle Johnson/Northern Iowan Pictured left to right: Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman, known as the Stud Budz, Cathy Engelbert the WNBA Commissioner, UConn’s Azzi Fudd and Dallas Wings player Paige Buecker and Fever’s Caitlin Clark.
Sesquicentennial celebration features emblem lawn paintings, building art
By Estelle Johnson Executive Editor
Around the University of Northern Iowa campus, students, faculty and staff can find new grass paintings and creative art to symbolize the sesquicentennial mark of our university.
The paintings are outlined by UNI’s Turf Tank, which UNI purchased in July 2024.
The tablet-operated robot is marketed towards decorating sports fields, but UNI is using it to promote UNI’s 150-year milestone. The Turf Tank outlines the design, then facilities employees then fill in the gaps with spray.
Adam Amdor, Assistant Director of Communications for UNI, said that the lawn paintings are a result of a group effort.
In a recent demonstration of the Turf Tank’s painting process for local reporters, Assistant Director of Campus Services Jonathan Butler mentioned the possibility of using the robot to paint UNI 150 graphics around campus.
Amdor said, “From there, my team identified several locations to make a visual impact, and we worked with Jonathan’s team to determine
if it made sense logistically.”
Paintings are located in high traffic areas on campus – including Curris Business building, the McLeod Center both feature lawn paintings.
On the west wall of Kamerick Art Building, a UNI 150 multi-colored emblem faces Hudson road.
The lawn paintings and building decorations are a way for UNI to utilize their decora-
tive resources while advertising the 150 year milestone.
“For this first run, we wanted to take advantage of Homecoming and the sesquicentennial launch bringing many visitors and alumni to campus,” Amdor noted. “Our sesquicentennial celebration will continue throughout the next year and we have a few more locations on our wishlist.”
– Adam Amdor Assistant Director of Communications for UNI
Courtesy of University of Northern Iowa Facebook
An aerial photo of the sesquicentennial lawn painting by the UNI-Dome
Courtesy of University of Northern Iowa Facebook
Curris Business building, which is the same as the one outside of the McLeod Center and UNI-Dome.
Courtesy of University of Northern Iowa Facebook UNI 150 artwork on the west side of Kamerick Art Building, facing Hudson Road.
Panther Pacers pounce through 5K
Students participate in Homecoming morning run
By Michael Spahn Assistant Sports Editor
Last Saturday, the UNI Panther Pacers Running Club held its Homecoming 5K Run.
This year’s route consisted of two loops around the southeast side of UNI’s campus, starting and ending at the campanile.
“It was a great experience to come out here and run with my friends,” said UNI junior Tanner Michael. “ I think physical activity is good, and I had a good time overall.”
Carter Lust, who is a sports reporter for the Northern Iowan staff, took first place in the Homecoming 5K race.
“I’m super thankful just to be out here,” said Lust. “I ran in high school and had
The race consisted mostly of UNI students, with a few alumni and adults in attendance. Participants also had the option to walk the course.
a lot of mental and physical setbacks, so I’m thankful to Jesus not for letting me win but to serve as a testament to what he helped me through physically and mentally.”
The race served as a great fundraising opportunity for the Panther Pacer Running Club, while also being a good
opportunity for participants to get some exercise to lead off a fun-filled homecoming weekend at UNI.
“It was good to see a lot of people out here,” said Lust. “I think running is becoming a lot more popular, so it was cool that the university did this.”
The Northern Iowan editorial team rides in 2025 UNI Homecoming parade
Michael Spahn/Northern Iowan
The Panther Pacers, a running group on campus,
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan Lily Munnik, News Editor, proudly sported her game-day bibs during the parade.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan The NI handed out newspapers and t-shirts.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan Sports Editor Cohen Kamaus drove the groups golf cart, and was ecstatic to do so.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan
Estelle Johnson, Lily Munnik, Cohen Kamaus and Jenna Westendorf pose for a photo.
16th annual Amazing Race to kick off Homecoming Weekend 2025
By Mackenzie Poock Staff Writer
On Tuesday, Sept. 30, the University of Northern Iowa’s Connecting Alumni to Students (CATS) organization hosted its 15th annual homecoming event called The Amazing Race.
The event began at 4:30 p.m. and brought energy and excitement to campus as 28 teams raced to compete in challenges across nine different stations scattered throughout campus.
Utilizing the GooseChase app, participants documented their completion of tasks with pictures. These stations tested everything from teamwork through puzzles to school spirit by dancing to the interlude and singing the UNI fight song, each filled with laughter and camaraderie.
For many, it was their first time experiencing the tradition.
“So excited! I’ve never done it before,” said a member of the Sunshine Squad, one of the 28 teams that participated in the race.
As the competition unfolded, prizes were awarded to the top three finishers, alongside special honors for Best Dressed and Most Spirited participants.
The Panther Sprinters raced ahead to secure first place, followed closely by the dynamic Glee Club in second and the Witches Be Crazy rounded out the top three. The Culture Crew dazzled everyone, earning the Best Dressed title, and the Prowl Patrol emerged as the crowd favorite, taking home the Most Spirit Award.
The Amazing Race stands as a highlight of UNI’s weeklong homecoming festivities, seamlessly weaving into the larger Traditions Challenge. This initiative encourages students to immerse themselves in cherished campus customs and “must-do” activities.
“This race completes the homecoming tradition. We encourage you to compete in traditions as the week continues,” urged one of the enthusiastic organizers, inspiring students to remain engaged throughout the celebration.
When students complete 25 traditions, they earn a lapel pin, and those who tackle 45 traditions receive a prestigious medallion to wear at graduation, further deepening their connection to the UNI legacy.
Maci
Swanson/Northern Iowan
TC and TK pose with panthers while enjoying the Homecoming traditions.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan Team shows excitment as the reach the finish line in the Amazing Race.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan Team rocks “Panther Nation” t-shirts while completeing their challenges.
Pereira completes revenge at UFC 320
By Mason Kalkbrenner Sports Writer
On Oct. 4, UFC 320 took place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event showcased some of the best talent in mixed martial arts. In the main event, Alex Pereira faced champion Magomed Ankalaev in a light heavyweight championship rematch. In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili defended his bantamweight title against Cory Sandhagen.
Last week, I said this card would be a good one, but it turned out to be absolutely amazing. My predicted outcome for each fight turned out to be correct — even the methods of victory. But what truly defined this event were the narratives built for the UFC and the shockwaves sent throughout each division. After UFC 320, it’s clear the UFC landscape is changing dramatically — and getting even better.
In the first fight of the main card, Joe Pyfer faced Abus Magomedov. From the start, Magomedov controlled the striking, landing 18 of 21 total strikes and 11 of 12 significant strikes. Pyfer landed 13 of 18 total strikes and 6 of 10 significant strikes. Luckily, this isn’t boxing — it’s mixed martial arts. That means other skills come into play beyond striking.
Pyfer used his grappling and submission abilities to take control. At 1 minute, 46 seconds into Round 2, Pyfer submitted Magomedov, earning a major victory. So what’s next for him? After
defeating Magomedov in that fashion, Pyfer has earned a fight against a ranked middleweight opponent. Someone like Marvin Vettori (No. 14) or Roman Dolidze (No. 12) would make a solid stylistic matchup for early 2026.
Following that bout, Youssef Zalal faced Josh Emmett in a featherweight matchup. Emmett, coming off a major injury, entered the fight as a sizable underdog. Meanwhile, Zalal was riding momentum after a big win over Calvin Kattar in February. I expected this fight to be closer than it was
— but Zalal proved to be several levels ahead.
Just one minute, 38 seconds into the first round, Zalal shot for a takedown and secured a slick armbar submission that forced Emmett to audibly tap. It was a jiu-jitsu masterclass from Zalal.
Still, it’s fair to question whether Emmett was fully healthy. This win should earn Zalal a higher-profile opponent, possibly Yair Rodriguez (No. 3). A matchup like that could be the defining moment of his young career.
Next up was the fight of
Sandhagen showed grit, managing to break free from several clinch attempts and defend 17 of 37 takedown attempts. Still, Dvalishvili’s constant pressure was too much, and he retained his title by unanimous decision. It’s unclear what’s next for Dvalishvili. He has nearly cleared out the division.
Could he move up to featherweight to chase a second belt? Or defend again against a fellow champion, perhaps flyweight titleholder Alexandre Pantoja? Time will tell.
Finally, it was time for the main event. After losing to Ankalaev earlier this year, Alex “Poatan” Pereira entered looking for revenge and to reclaim his light heavyweight crown. His signature “bow and arrow” walkout gesture symbolized his intent to hunt his opponent.
the night: Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree. The two intensely fought for nearly three rounds. Both fighters exchanged heavy shots that could have ended the fight at any moment. The staredown beforehand was electric, setting the tone for a true brawl.
Rountree controlled the first two rounds with his kicks and octagon control, landing 66 of 158 significant strikes, while Prochazka landed 71 of 138.
No takedowns were attempted by either fighter. This was a battle of attrition — who would fall first? As I predicted, Rountree eventually hit the canvas after a brutal left from Prochazka, who snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in true warrior fashion.
Round three was one of the best in recent UFC history. For Prochazka, a light heavyweight title shot seems inevitable. His champion-caliber skill set and mindset continue to shine through every fight.
The co-main event between Dvalishvili and Sandhagen, while not as wild, was a display of dominance. Dvalishvili’s relentless stamina and wrestling were on full display.
He landed 20 takedowns over five rounds, along with 114 of 265 significant strikes to Sandhagen’s 80 of 184.
This was always going to be a tough fight for “The Sandman.” Dvalishvili is quickly making his case as the greatest bantamweight of all time.
Ankalaev, the favorite, came in riding a 14-fight unbeaten streak. On paper, the challenge looked steep — but Pereira appeared far more prepared this time. Reports indicated he was not 100% in their previous meeting, and this time he looked sharp and motivated. When the fight began, Pereira immediately pressed forward, backing Ankalaev against the cage. His elite striking was on full display.
After landing a barrage of shots, Pereira hurt Ankalaev badly. The champion dropped to his knees for a desperate takedown, but Pereira pounced. After a series of vicious groundand-pound strikes and 12-6 elbows, referee Herb Dean stopped the fight.
After their first fight went the distance, Pereira ended this one in just one minute, 20 seconds — by knockout, just as I predicted.
The T-Mobile Arena erupted as chants of “Chama!” echoed throughout. Pereira reclaimed his throne as the UFC light heavyweight champion.
As the crowd celebrated, cameras showed Jiri Prochazka applauding while staring at Pereira with determination — a hint at a potential trilogy fight.
Pereira has expressed interest in moving up to heavyweight to chase a third UFC title, but UFC President Dana White said after the event, “There are still fights in that division.”
Whether it’s Prochazka, Carlos Ulberg, or another contender, one thing is certain: any fight involving Alex Pereira will be a mustwatch.
Courtesy/Al Jazeera Alex Pereira stunned Ankalaev with a TKO to regain his light heavyweight title.
Courtesy/UFC Jiri Prochazka stormed back and defeated Khalil Rountree with a knockout punch.
Panthers look ahead to Bradley Pink Classic
By Carter Lust Sports Writer
Following an encouraging performance at the Gans Creek Classic in Columbia, MO., the University of Northern Iowa women’s cross-country team faced a short turnaround before competing at the Dan Hutson Invitational. Just one week after their trip to Missouri, the Panthers sent a small squad to Waverly, IA., to compete against other Midwestern teams. Since the invitational came so shortly after UNI’s hardest effort of the season at Gans Creek, the Panther women opted to hold some of their runners back, while the Northern Iowa men chose not to race at all. Both groups are preparing for next week’s Bradley Pink Classic, which will serve as their final regular-season meet of the year.
Just five Panthers competed on Wartburg College’s Max Cross-Country Course, but they fought to a fifthplace finish out of 15 teams. The race’s start time of 10:45 a.m. brought about unusually high temperatures for an October day, as the thermostat crept near the 80-degree mark and surpassed it during the competition.
Additionally, fierce winds with gusts exceeding 20 mph made for a formidable day on the grass. Yet, it was
sophomore Liza Schaffer leading UNI in her first-ever race over the 6k distance. Schaffer placed seventh in
22:53.9 for a strong opener. Freshman teammate Sarah Fedderson was not far behind, running a new per-
sonal best of 23:02.5 for 11th overall. Brooke O’Brien was the next Panther across the finish line, earning 14th in
23:09.3. Trailing O’Brien was Kayla Young, who ran 24:33.1 on her way to finishing 39th overall. Kaylin Lacher rounded things out for Northern Iowa, completing her 6k debut in 25:06.7 for 62nd place.
The No. 28-ranked team in NCAA Division III, Central College Dutch, comfortably captured the team title with 61 points. Molly Liston of Gustavus Adolphus was the race’s individual champion with a time of 21:45.7.
Both UNI men’s and women’s teams will travel to Peoria, Ill., to compete in the Bradley Pink Classic on Oct. 17. Although the meet’s start list is currently unavailable, the Panthers can expect similar competition to the 2024 event, with multiple Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) and Power 5 universities in attendance.
Each squad will have to compete well to improve on its standing from last year, especially with the losses of school records holders Caleb Shumaker and Emma Hoins to graduation. Nevertheless, the meet serves as an excellent opportunity for Northern Iowa to gauge its standing against other conference opponents heading into the MVC Championships on Oct. 31.
UNI Swim and Dive hosts intrasquad meet
By Nicole Waters Sports Writer
The UNI swimming and diving team kicked off its 2025-26 season on Saturday afternoon with its annual Purple and Gold Intrasquad meet inside the Glen F. Henry Pool.
In a close contest, the purple squad edged out the gold team by a score of 123118. The afternoon began with the 200-yard medley relay, where the gold team of Morgan Raether, Neriah Giedrys, Hannah Nedder, and Abby Lear narrowly topped the purple relay of Elyse Brayton, Sydney Aird, Nikki Walters, and Morgan Meyer.
In the 500-yard freestyle, gold’s Abigail Barkhurst and Sam Oeltjen claimed first and second place, while purple’s Kirsten Tarran took third.
The 200-yard individual medley saw Nikki Walters earn the win for the purple team, with gold’s Molly Johnson and Rachel Rolow finishing second and third.
The 200-yard freestyle went to Morgan Meyer
for the purple team, followed by gold swimmers
Jennifer Barajas and Natalie Kuboshek in second and third. In the 50-yard freestyle, gold’s Abby Lear touched first, ahead of purple’s Charlotte Sander and gold’s Morgan Raether.
The 100-yard butterfly was another strong showing for gold, with Hannah Nedder taking first. Purple’s Nikki Walters and Natalie Harris finished second and third. The 50-yard freestyle title went to Morgan Meyer for purple, with Natalie
Kuboushek and Josie Parton of gold rounding out the top three. In the 100-yard backstroke, purple’s Elyse Brayton claimed first, followed by gold’s Morgan Raether and Sabra Brueggen. The 100-yard breaststroke was dominated by gold as
Neriah Giedrys and Aspen Cole secured first and second, while purple’s Sydney Aird took third.
The meet concluded with the 200-yard freestyle relay, where the purple quartet of Charlotte Sander, Averie Bilskemper, Natalie Harris, and Morgan Meyer took first place.
The gold team of Morgan Raether, Abby Lear, Hannah Nedder, and Josie Parton finished second. Over in the diving well, Erica Peters led the purple team with a win on the one-meter springboard, while gold’s Trista Thompson and Avery Hogan took second and third.
To wrap up the afternoon, the Panther divers added a fun twist with a 50-yard freestyle sprint. Peters and Coonrad led the way for the purple team, while gold’s Addison Bausman finished third.
UNI swimmers also joined in on a one-meter diving competition, with Meyer winning for purple and Aspen Cole and Josie Parton placing second and third for gold.
COURTESY/ILLINOIS STATE ATHLETICS
The Panthers are next in action on Oct. 17 in Peoria.
COURTESY/CPOSEPHOTO
The purple team narrowly defeated the gold team in the intrasquad contest.
Fighting Hawks soar over Panthers
By Michael Spahn Assistant Sports Editor
The Northern Iowa football team fell to North Dakota 35-7 during Saturday’s homecoming game at the UNI-Dome.
The game was largely defensive for most of the first half. The Panthers reached the red zone late in the first quarter but couldn’t capitalize. The Fighting Hawks’ defense forced a fumble and returned it 63 yards for a touchdown to take a 7-0 lead.
“Takeaways are hard to bounce away from,” UNI head coach Todd Stepsis said after the game. “On that one, the guy we were throwing to was getting grabbed, so he couldn’t break free to get the ball, and they ended up making a great play on it.”
Shortly after the fumble return, the first offensive score of the game came with under two minutes to play in the first half, when the Fighting Hawks connected on a 20-yard touchdown pass to extend their lead to 14-0 at halftime.
The Panthers looked to gain momentum early in the second half, but that was
quickly halted by a 77-yard touchdown pass from the Fighting Hawks that made it 21-0. After the UNI offense
stalled again, North Dakota began to pull away, converting a 6-yard touchdown pass to make it 28-0.
The Panthers were able to put together a scoring drive late in the game.
Quarterback Matthew
Scheckelman found Derek Anderson in the end zone for a touchdown to make it 35-7, which would ultimately be the final score. Stepsis said he knew what wasn’t working for his team.
“It was untimely errors that would steal momentum,” Stepsis said. “I was proud of the defense for continuing to show up and continuing to fight.”
Despite the loss, Stepsis was pleased with the support from the UNI faithful on homecoming weekend.
“We felt it right from the jump, walking from our pregame meal into the dome,” Stepsis said. “Students were out in full force, our band was fantastic, and the cheerleaders were unbelievable.”
Attendance at the UNIDome totaled 12,048, the highest of the season. Northern Iowa fell to 2-3 overall and 0-1 in Missouri Valley Football Conference play.
The Panthers travel to Brookings, South Dakota, on Saturday to face South Dakota State. The game will be streamed on ESPN+ and broadcast on the Panther Sports Radio Network.
Panthers serve up a homecoming sweep
By Tyler Wood Sports Writer
The Murray State Racers volleyball team traveled to Cedar Falls on Saturday to face the UNI Panthers for their homecoming game.
UNI entered the match 10-5 overall and 3-0 in conference play, while the Racers came in 2-10 with a conference record of 0-3.
The first set of the match was a close one. After an early three-point lead for the Panthers, the two teams went back and forth until the score was tied at 10.
Following a brief Murray State lead, the Panthers found a way to tie the game at 20-all. They went on to win the set 25-23 in a nail-biter. Lily Dykstra led the team with five kills in the set, while Isabelle Elliot led the Panthers with three blocks.
The second set was played well defensively by the Panthers, and it wasn’t as close as the first. After jumping out to a 10-3 lead, UNI closed out the frame 25-10 with a dominant showing on both sides of the ball.
The Panthers had 14 kills and recorded four blocks in the set, hitting .650 overall.
Midway through the third set, UNI’s Reese Booth recorded an ace to put the Panthers up 16-11. UNI went on to take the set 25-15, completing the three-set sweep. They finished with a hitting percentage of .382 and 17 kills in the final frame.
conference matches.
Cassidy Hartman led UNI with 14 kills and 11 digs for a double-double. Kaitlyn Sellner paced the Panthers with seven total blocks, and Sydney Golden tallied a season-high 19 assists.
The Panthers currently hold a regular-season con -
ference win streak of 40 matches and look to extend it to 41 in their upcoming game against Evansville. For Murray State, UNI handed the Racers their ninth straight loss as they look to turn things around this season.
The Panthers will face the Evansville Purple Aces at home in their next match. The Purple Aces are 5-11 on the season and 1-3 in conference play. Match time is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 10 at the McLeod Center.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan The Panthers look to bounce back next week vs South Dakota State.
Maci Swanson/Northern Iowan The Panthers have now won 40 straight
CROSSWORD
BY RYAN SALES
Across
1) Car fuel
4) Classic game consoles
10) Inhabitant of the circled letters from UNI, with 70a 14) ___ for tat
15) "Not cool at all!"
16) Peek-___
17) Sp. title
18) "Yay, me!"
19) Steals from
20) Part of speech that includes in, at, or on
23) Guitarist Hendrix
24) Greek portico
25) Leave alone
29) Take ___ from someone's book
31) Full
33) German exclamation
34) Film with a famous chariot race
36) Roads to nowhere
38) "Mummified," like a house
40) Suffix with joke or hip
41) Defeat in the NBA's three-point contest, say 45) Palin and Paulson
49) The Wildcats of the Big 12 Conf.
50) "Sesame Street" grouch
52) Loggers' competition
53) "Treat You Better" singer Mendes
55) Smartphone introduced in 2002
57) Speech problem
58) Some triangle sides
61) Easter Island statues
64) Wipes out
65) Actress Long
67) Weaponry
68) Go over again
69) Key above Caps Lock
70) See 10a
71) Black Sea port
72) Light switch
Down
1) Fast sports cars
2) Scuba mouthpiece attachment
3) He's "waiting in the sky" in a classic David Bowie song
4) Take ___ (try some)
5) Chores
6) Elite groups
7) Commercial that might have a jingle
8) Copies
9) Alien-seeking org.
10) Strategic WWI river 11) Blood-typing letters
12) Hold up, as a bank
13) Floors
21) Figure-skating figures
22) Grandmotherly type 23) Quick punch
26) Light brown
27) Three before E 28) Sounds of doubt
30) Harmonious combination of words
32) Grub
35) Classic cars
37) Flynn and others
39) Not entirely real, as a photo
41) Approves
42) Work in a theater, slangily
43) Quarterback Tagovailoa who led the NFL in passing yards in 2023
44) Steak ___
46) Not recognizable by 47) Mercenary in the American Revolution
48) Soak (up)
51) Peanut butter cup brand
54) Batter blender
56) They're first in the draft
59) Spanish "but"
60) Prime letters?
61) Guy
62) Spanish gold
63) "Yo te ___"
66) Six-pack muscles
SUDOKU
Weekly Horoscope
