Since Harry O. Stinson became the athletics director on July 10, 2017, the Department of Athletics & Recreational Services has undergone transitions that have fundamentally redefined the unit, starting with the name change that added "Recreational Services," which took effect July 1, 2018.
As part of the university-wide restructuring to align with the new strategic plan, athletics expanded to encompass the Wellness Center and all recreational activities and spaces.
"Our goal is to provide quality experiences not only for our student-athletes, but for our student body as a whole along with our alumni, fans, and community partners," Stinson said. "This includes providing recreational services that encompass a revamped intramural program, men's and women's lacrosse club teams, and opportunities to explore Esports on campus."
Esports are a form of competition using video games that mimic the experience of watching a professional sporting event, except instead of watching a physical event, spectators watch video gamers compete against each other.
Stinson said he and his team are also creating more group exercise opportunities for faculty, staff, and the community so that everyone can enjoy the excellent facilities on campus. These opportunities will provide our students with co-curricular experiences that, when coupled with their experiences in the classroom, will allow them to leave Lincoln as leaders ready to take over any industry that awaits them.
Athletics expanded the tools for exposure via social media and Stinson and the coaching staff gave more interviews and served on numerous panels on the national stage. The tremendous run to the CIAA women's basketball semifinals proved that student athletes embraced the new mantra to "ACT like WEE are CHAMPIONS" (see sidebar) by positioning Lincoln programs for success in the future.
"My vision for athletics is to have the best event experiences and the finest athletics department in the NCAA Division II," said Stinson. The athletics program continues to grow with the addition of several new staff members responsible for positioning student-athletes to succeed both on and off the playing field. New staff members include a strength and conditioning coach, a student-athlete academic advisor, an equipment and intramurals director, and a new assistant athletics director to oversee the Wellness Center.
"The additional staff will assist our program in becoming the best-run athletic department in Division II while enabling our students to succeed," Stinson said.
Be on the lookout for refreshed athletics branding. Our sleek new design will uniquely identify the Lincoln Lion and personify the Orange and Blue. Athletics is also in the process of transitioning our brand affiliation to Under Armour®, which means that all teams and staff will be outfitted with Under Armour. Fans will be able to purchase the new apparel and gear in a new online store launching soon.
The athletic program has also secured funding to renovate some athletic facilities. The track and field complex and the outdoor basketball courts will be resurfaced. The practice fields will also be updated to house several field events including field hockey, lacrosse, flag/7-on-7 football and soccer. "Track & field is a part of our storied athletic history and being able to resurface the track surface will provide an elite level training facility while paying homage to our great history," stated Stinson. "The ability to also increase our field offerings helps us bring in outside funding while exposing the community and local teams to our great facilities."
As Lincoln University athletics continues to grow, Stinson wants everyone to become part of the experience:
"Now, more than ever, help us take that next step by providing a monetary or recurring gift. Donate to the athletics program to assist us with the ever-increasing athletics infrastructure costs. We look forward to the future. We look forward to your financial support. But most importantly, we look forward to seeing you on campus garnishing your Orange and Blue!"
