The University of Wisconsin–Superior is expanding its athletic offerings with the addition of one varsity and two club sports. Beginning in the 2025–26 and 2026–27 academic years, Yellowjacket Athletics will welcome women’s lacrosse, men’s club ice hockey and men’s club soccer to its growing lineup. These additions reflect the university’s continued commitment to enriching the student experience and responding to the interests of current and prospective student-athletes.
UW-Superior will launch women’s lacrosse as an NCAA varsity sport, set to begin competition in spring 2027. Two new club sports – men’s ice hockey and men’s soccer – will begin play in the 2025–26 academic year.
With the addition of women’s lacrosse, UW-Superior will sponsor 20 varsity sports (nine men’s and 11 women’s). The club men’s hockey and soccer teams will be the first club sports operated under the Yellowjacket Athletics umbrella.
“We’re thrilled to expand our athletic offerings and provide new opportunities for student-athletes,” said Director of Athletics Nick Bursik. “These programs reflect increasing student interest and the growing popularity of these sports in our region.”
Club Sports Overview
Men’s Club Hockey will compete in Division II of the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA).They will face regional opponents and play home games at Siinto S. Wessman Arena. The full schedule will be released this fall.
Men’s Club Soccer will be competing in the Midwest Alliance Soccer Conference (MASC). The team will open its inaugural season with six home games at Superior Choice Credit Union Stadium. The first match is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6, at 11 a.m. against Michigan Tech.
Student-athletes in both programs will be led by head coaches and integrated into the university’s athletics support systems.
Varsity Women’s Lacrosse Joins WIAC
Women’s lacrosse, one of the fastest-growing NCAA Division III sports, will join the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) as an affiliate member. UW-Superior is currently an affiliate WIAC member in men’s and women’s ice hockey and was a full conference member until joining the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) in 2015.
“We’re excited to join the WIAC and provide a strong competitive home for our women’s lacrosse program,” Bursik said. “This aligns with our commitment to delivering a high-quality experience for our student-athletes.”
The WIAC is entering its fourth season sponsoring women’s lacrosse and will receive an automatic qualifier to the NCAA tournament beginning in 2026.
Hilda Nuutinen – Women’s Lacrosse
Hilda Nuutinen was named the inaugural head coach of UW-Superior’s women’s lacrosse program in May following a national search.
“I’m honored to lead this new program and grateful for the opportunity,” Nuutinen said. “Building a program from the ground up is a unique and exciting challenge. I look forward to creating a strong foundation that empowers student-athletes to grow, compete and succeed on and off the field.”
Nuutinen comes from Hudson (Wis.) High School, where she served as co-head coach since 2021, consistently leading the program to top-10 state rankings. She has also coached with Minnesota Chill and Homegrown Lacrosse.
A Hudson native, Nuutinen played three seasons at NCAA Division II Northern Michigan University, appearing in 20 games with six starts. She earned a degree in public relations in 2023 and is pursuing a master’s in sports management at Concordia University, St. Paul.
“Hilda brings a strong coaching background and a clear vision for building a competitive and holistic program,” Bursik said.
Sam Romutis – Men’s Club Hockey
Sam Romutis has been appointed head coach of the men’s club hockey team.
“I’m honored to be the first head coach in program history and excited to build a competitive team,” Romutis said. “UW-Superior has a tradition of athletic success, and I look forward to contributing to that legacy.”
Romutis most recently served as an assistant coach for the Texas Roadrunners (NA3HL), helping the team to a 44-41-8-1 record in two seasons. He is currently a scout for the Odessa Jackalopes (NAHL), where he also previously served as an assistant coach. His coaching experience spans youth through junior levels, with particular expertise in player development and goaltending.
“Sam brings a clear vision for success and the experience needed to build a strong foundation for our program,” Bursik said.
Gus Nascimento – Men’s Club Soccer
In April, Gus Nascimento was announced as the head coach of the men’s club soccer team.
“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity,” Nascimento said. “Having already been part of UW-Superior Athletics, I’m excited to lead this new program and work with our student-athletes to build something meaningful from the ground up.”
Nascimento has served the past two years as an assistant coach for the Yellowjackets’ varsity men’s soccer team. He is also the director of coaching at Two Harbors Soccer Club and an assistant coach with Superior City FC (UPSL). His previous coaching roles include Lake Superior College, Duluth East High School and East Select Soccer.
“We’re excited to have Gus lead the club program into its inaugural season,” said Bursik. “His experience and commitment to the student-athlete experience will be instrumental in building a successful program.”
Nascimento has also worked at UW-Superior in international admissions and the registrar’s office, bringing a unique understanding of both athletics and student life.
Looking Ahead
These new additions mark a significant step forward for UW-Superior Athletics, enhancing student engagement and expanding opportunities for competition and development. For more information on Yellowjacket Athletics, team schedules or recruitment, visit uwsyellowjackets.com.
