BEREA, Ohio -- As the 2024-25 academic calendar approaches, the Baldwin Wallace University Departments of Athletics and Campus Recreation are excited to announce that the two departments will now merge under a new department and will be known as the Department of Athletics and Recreation.
The newly formed department will now include varsity athletics, athletic communications, athletic training, club sports, Esports, intramurals, and recreation housed in the Lou Higgins Center, Finnie Stadium and the Packard Athletic Complex.
"Uniting Campus Recreation and Athletics creates a powerhouse where students strive to become the best versions of themselves through physical fitness, competition, and teamwork." stated Director of Athletics and Recreation Steve Thompson, who served as the Director of Athletics for the past three years.
In addition to the merger, several members of the department will take on new titles and roles within in the department.
"Uniting Campus Recreation and Athletics creates a powerhouse where students strive to become the best versions of themselves through physical fitness, competition, and teamwork." stated Director of Athletics and Recreation Steve Thompson, who served as the Director of Athletics for the past three years.
In addition to the merger, several members of the department will take on new titles and roles within in the department.
Rob Becker '04, who has served as the Director of Campus Recreation and Athletic Facilities for the past year and the previous 12 years as both the Director and Assistant Director of Recreational Sports and Services, will now have the title of Associate Athletic Director for Facilities and Operations.
Christine Varga '94, who has served as the Associate Director of Campus Recreation for the past year and as the Assistant Director of Campus Recreation for the previous 27 years, will now have the title of Associate Athletic Director of Club Sports and Recreation.
Jason Zastrow, who has served as the Associate Head Men's Wrestling Coach for the past four years and Compliance Office for the past three years, will now have the title of Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance and Associate Head Men's Wrestling Coach.
Jake Grasso '20 & '22, who has served as Assistant Director of Sports and Recreation for Esports, will now have the title of Director of Esports.
