SALISBURY, N.C. — Catawba College Athletics has announced several additions to its coaching and support staff, as well as promotions and title changes, thus strengthening its commitment to the development and success of its student-athletes across multiple programs.
The new additions bring experience in athletic communications, broadcasting, sports performance, athletic training and coaching.
"I'm excited to recognize a promotion, title change and welcome the new staff members joining Catawba Athletics," said Vice President for Athletics Michelle Caddigan. "The continued strength of our department reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for our student-athletes and supporting the success of each of our programs. Every member of our staff plays an important role in what we are building at Catawba, and I'm grateful for the talent, energy, and commitment they bring to our program. I look forward to the impact they will have on our student-athletes and the continued success of Catawba Athletics."
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Sports medicine and athletic training
"I am excited to announce the hiring of Maggie Hackler as an assistant athletic trainer," said Assistant Athletic Director of Sports Medicine Brandon Auton. "I feel like she is an excellent fit for my staff. I am confident she can provide quality health care to our student-athletes."
"Her background as a DII student-athlete will allow her to understand the demands of athletics, along with degrees from Shippensburg University and her master's degree at UNC Charlotte in athletic training," Auton said. "I am excited to watch her career take its next steps at Catawba."
Football coaching staff
"We are excited to have Zeke join the Catawba Football Family," said Football Head Coach Tyler Haines. "His coaching experience in Rowan County and the South Atlantic Conference will be beneficial to the cornerbacks, the defense, and our entire team!"
Softball coaching staff
"I'm excited to welcome Salem Ward to our coaching staff," said Softball Head Coach Allie Lyerly. "As a recent graduate and pitcher from UNCG, she brings valuable experience and a fresh perspective to our program. I'm especially looking forward to the knowledge and insight she'll provide to our pitchers as they continue to develop their skills and confidence in the circle."
"Ward's passion for the game, competitive mindset and commitment to student-athlete development will be valuable additions to the program," Lyerly said.
"Having Bree transition from player to coach is a unique and exciting opportunity for our program," Lyerly said. "After an outstanding career on the field, Bree has already earned the respect of her teammates through her work ethic, leadership and commitment to excellence. I know she'll bring that same passion and competitive spirit to our coaching staff."
Lyerly added that Bree's familiarity with Catawba's culture and program expectations will allow her to make an immediate impact while continuing to grow as a coach.
Women's lacrosse coaching staff
"With Sophi's knowledge, passion and overall commitment to excellence, she will be a tremendous addition to our staff," said Women's Lacrosse Head Coach Sarah Stagaard. "We are so excited to have her on board and can't wait to see the impact she will make on our program and student-athletes."
Sports performance staff
"Kyle has been an extremely valuable addition to the Sports Performance staff," said Director of Sports Performance Brock McMichael. "Having another expert in the room ensures our department takes the necessary steps to reach new heights. Kyle brings a new perspective to the program with the addition of new sports science technology. Through these new methods of training, our athletes will receive elite-level development and workload management."
McMichael also highlighted Kyle's collaboration with the sports medicine staff in revitalizing return-to-play protocols for injured student-athletes.
Along with Kyle, Catawba has added graduate assistants Ty Kelley, Julius Larson and Jaime Alpizar.
"Eager to learn and grow in their own careers, we are confident in our new staff's ability to provide elite-level coaching to our student-athletes," McMichael said. "I am excited for the future of Catawba Sports Performance as our staff continues to grow."
Athletic communications and broadcasting
"Josh is a natural leader who is never complacent, with being just okay," Associate AD for Athletic Communications/Creative Services Dajah Mincey said. "I know he is going to elevate the world of our broadcasting to new heights while never settling in the process. His background and experience make him the perfect fit for the Director of Broadcasting role, not just in task, but as a team player and everything we look for within our Catawba culture. He is a pleasure to be around, and I am so excited to see his career continue to progress."
Trevor Adair has been named assistant director of athletic communications.
"I am thrilled to welcome Trevor to Catawba College and have the utmost confidence that he will not only thrive, but that he will bring a world of new and refreshing ideas to the world of Athletic Communications," said Mincey. "Trevor is one of the most driven young professionals that I have ever met, and I am looking forward to seeing his career take off while contributing great things to the Catawba community."
Tennis coaching staff
"I am very excited to be adding Sam to our coaching staff," said Men's and Women's Tennis Head Coach Michael Cabana. "He comes to Catawba with head coaching experience as well as having coached at the DII level," said Cabana. "He will be a great addition to the program; his values and coaching philosophy align well with the Catawba Culture and the culture we are trying to build within the tennis programs."
Track and field coaching staff
"I am very excited to have Melita join our staff," said Head Cross Country/Track & Field Coach Jason Bryan. "She has a passion for the student-athletes and is going to help our program in so many ways. The throws group is the last event group we need to address to become a complete program, and with the addition of coach and the opening of a new facility, the future is very bright here at Catawba College."
The additions come as Catawba Athletics continues to expand its staff and resources across its athletic programs, with a focus on providing comprehensive support and development opportunities for its student-athletes.
