The nationally ranked liberal arts campus of the University of Minnesota, Morris has recently undergone an intensive scrutiny of its intercollegiate athletic program which resulted in a decision last spring to leave its current National Collegiate Athletic Association Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC), a Division II league, for Division III play. Following broad campus-wide discussion and extensive consultation, the college has applied for membership in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC), a group of mostly independent and Division III schools
"We are embarking on a new era in Cougar athletics," stated Olson-Loy. "Our search for a new, full-time director of our emerging NCAA Division III athletic program is an important strategic step in building a competitive sports program at UMM. At the same time, we are pleased that Mark has agreed to continue as part of the athletic program at UMM after his many years of exemplary service."
"A key finding in our AD review last year which was echoed by our consultant is the need for a full-time athletic director," explained Olson-Loy. "In our current structure, our athletic director also serves as head coach for two sports, teaches, and manages our facilities, and has his time is allocated in a variety of ways. Coaching duties will no longer be part of the newly configured AD position, which we expect will strengthen the program considerably," continued Olson-Loy.
Fohl will continue his coaching duties in men's golf and baseball and his teaching duties within the Division of Education. He will also assist the institution in the process of transition from NCAA Division II to Division III play and from NSIC to the UMAC conference affiliation.
"Mark Fohl has served UMM very capably throughout his 16 years as the director of intercollegiate athletics," offered Olson-Loy. "Mark has maintained the highest level of integrity in our Cougar sports program, while providing stability and careful management, especially during this past challenging decade. We are grateful for his leadership and fortunate that he will continue at UMM. His considerable expertise in athletic administration will be invaluable to us as we move through this time of rather complex transitioning."
"I believe the time is right for UMM to have an individual who can dedicate their time entirely to the duties of an athletic director," stated Fohl. "I appreciate the support I have received from many people over the years, and I look forward to having more time to spend with the golf and baseball teams and being part of the process of making the transition to Division III and a new conference."
An appointment is expected by March, with the new AD assuming responsibilities in June.
The University of Minnesota, Morris, is nationally distinctive as an academically rigorous, public undergraduate liberal arts college. The campus of nearly 2,000 students was cited by The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools as a "model liberal arts college" in its recent reaccreditation report.
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Last Modified Tuesday, February 01, 2005
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