SAINT LEO, FL - On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, Saint Leo University President Dr. Edward Dadez announced that Marcal Lazenby had been appointed as the Director of Athletics, Recreation, & Wellness. This appointment marked a pivotal moment in the university's ongoing commitment to fostering athletic and academic excellence.

Marcal Lazenby stepped into the role of Interim Director of Athletics, Recreation, & Wellness on July 1, 2023, following the retirement of the esteemed Vice President and Director of Athletics, Fran Reidy. Prior to his well-deserved promotion, Lazenby had been an integral part of the athletic department, serving as the associate athletic director with responsibilities encompassing compliance, athletic communications, facilities management, ticketing and concessions, merchandising, and sponsorships. His journey at Saint Leo University commenced in 2017 when he took on the role of Director of NCAA Compliance. Over the years, Lazenby demonstrated his dedication and leadership, earning promotions that reflected his unwavering commitment to the university's athletic programs.

Lazenby's journey to Saint Leo University was paved with a rich background in athletics. He brought with him a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Director of Athletics at his alma mater, Glenville State University in West Virginia. This unique combination of educational and athletic experience undoubtedly informed his approach to leadership at Saint Leo.

As he assumed the role of Interim Director of Athletics, Lazenby received praise and support from Dr. Dadez, who highlighted the significance of Lazenby's background and experience. Dr. Dadez remarked, "We are fortunate to have someone on our staff with Marcal's background and level of experience. Marcal has been an NCAA Division II student-athlete, previously served as a Division II athletic director, and has been with Saint Leo for the last six years. He has a strong commitment toward achieving athletic and academic excellence, as well as a deep appreciation for our core values, which shape all we do at Saint Leo."

In response to his appointment, Lazenby expressed his honor and enthusiasm for the challenges that lie ahead, stating, "I am honored and look forward to the challenge of building upon the proud athletic and academic traditions at Saint Leo. I look forward to leading the great staff we have in place and aligning athletics, wellness, and recreation with the university's strategic plan as we create a vision of excellence for the future." Lazenby has already had an impact on campus launching the "One Pride" theme focusing on fostering community not only in the athletic department but across University campus.

With Marcal Lazenby's well-deserved promotion to Director of Athletics, Recreation, & Wellness, Saint Leo University is poised to continue its legacy of athletic excellence, guided by a leader who embodies a deep commitment to both sports and academia. Under his stewardship, the university's athletic programs are primed for a promising future.

Saint Leo Athletics boasts a diverse array of 15 NCAA Division II sports teams, all of which compete within the esteemed Sunshine State Conference, a conference comprising 11 private schools in Florida. The roots of Saint Leo's athletic involvement in this conference trace back to its founding in 1975 when the university became one of its charter members.

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