Lake-Sumter State College is pleased to announce the appointment of Padraic McMeel as the Executive Director of Athletics.

“Padraic is an excellent addition to Lake-Sumter State College and our Lakehawk Athletics program,” said Dr. Heather Bigard, President. “He brings a passion for enhancing our Athletics program with a focus elevating the student-athlete experience. Padraic brings his expertise from experiences at Athletics programs at various levels to LSSC, where he will continue to support the growth of our programs and the development of well-rounded student-athletes.”

McMeel joins Lake-Sumter State College from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, where he served as the Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Operations. He has also held operations, fundraising, and leadership roles at Black Hills State University, Oakland University, and Kennesaw State University.

McMeel throws the first pitch at Baseball’s Season Opening Game.

“I am truly honored to join Lake-Sumter State College and lead the Lakehawk Athletics program into its next chapter,” said Padraic McMeel, the newly appointed Executive Director of Athletics. “Under President Bigard’s leadership, I am excited to work alongside our dedicated student-athletes, coaches, and staff to continue building upon the foundation of success already established. Together, we will strive to enhance the student-athlete experience and foster a culture of excellence both on and off the field.”

McMeel joins a growing Lakehawk Athletics program that includes a sports lineup of baseball, beach volleyball (women’s), cross country (men’s and women’s), softball, track & field (men’s and women’s), and volleyball (women’s).

The track & field teams are in their inaugural season this Spring. A men’s and women’s golf program is in development for fall 2024.

In school firsts, two student-athletes were named national Athletes of the Week by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) this spring season.  Jaabir Taylor was name NJCAA Men’s Indoor Track & Field Athlete of the Week on February 14, and Megan Wright was selected as the NJCAA DII Softball Player of the Week on March 20.

McMeel holds a bachelor’s degree in sports administration and a master’s degree in athletic administration from Central Michigan University.

Visit www.lakehawksports.com to stay up-to-date on all Lakehawk Athletics activities and results.