By MIKE ABASOLO/Buildersports.com
Southwestern College President Liz Frombgen has removed the interim title, naming Matt O’Brien as the college’s director of athletics. With the support of an administrative team in athletics, O’Brien will also continue his work as Southwestern’s head men’s basketball coach.
“Matt is a proven leader and he will offer oversight and support to an incredibly talented group of coaches. He is focused on building programs that develop student athletes who are competitive, but, more importantly, are of high character — who make us proud in all ways,” said Frombgen.
Entering his 15th season at Southwestern College, O’Brien has served in a variety of roles in his 23 years at the collegiate level. He will draw on varied experience throughout his career including time spent as a sports information director, a member of student affairs staff, and a full-time member of faculty to make decisions that strengthen the college.
“I want to thank President Liz for this opportunity. She made it an easy decision for me; I believe in her vision for the future of Southwestern and I believe in her leadership,” said O’Brien. “I’m excited to lead Moundbuilder athletics forward.”
Like he builds his team roster, O’Brien has focused on building his athletic department team with a staff who are deeply rooted in Builder culture and center their work around character development.
“My staff brings extensive experience to their work, but first and foremost, I was focused on I surrounding myself and this department with exceptional people who believe in the mission of the college and understand their role in serving our student athletes,” added O’Brien.
Lock Schnelle, entering his 16th year at Southwestern College, and will continue as head athletic trainer was named associate athletic director along side O’Brien by Frombgen.
Schnelle’s brings a wealth of knowledge regarding the NAIA sports landscape and a deep care for students.
Brad Griffin will also continue in his role as head football coach, entering his 9th season at Southwestern, and will take on additional responsibilities serving as assistant athletic director and athletic compliance officer. Griffin and the Moundbuilder football program finished 9-2 overall, 9-1 in the KCAC, a season ago and ranked as high as No.10 nationally. Griffin has a tradition of hiring and building up a talented staff and is knowledgeable about conference and division requirements for student athlete’s participation and standing.
Amber Hafenstein, is returning to the athletic department as administrative assistant to SC Athletics.
“Amber is key member of out team, with her previous experience of the athletic department, her knowledge is immeasurable,” said O’Brien.
Micah Gabler enters his second season with the Southwestern men’s basketball staff and will provide oversight to game day management.
Additionally, the athletic department has added Mike Abasolo as sports information director. Abasolo previously was the head boys basketball coach at Mulvane High School for seven seasons, seven years as an assistant before that, where he also taught high school journalism for 12 years. Abasolo has spent a combined 23 years coaching at the NAIA and high school levels. In addition to technical skill he brings a strong network to the group.
“I am so looking forward to the return of our student athletes and the beginning of a great era for Moundbuilder athletics. I invite our community to support these young people; they benefit from your presence and support, plus they are so fun to watch compete,” added O’Brien.
For more information about Moundbuilder athletics including a schedule of sporting events visit www.buildersports.com. For additional information about Southwestern College visit www.sckans.edu.
