Mike Oblinger, Director of Athletics

Mike Oblinger was a student-athlete his entire life but didn't envision a career in athletics. A graduate school mentor set him on the path that led to him taking over UNCW's athletics department this past April. He held previous positions at the University of Connecticut, Louisiana State University-Tiger Athletic Foundation, Nevada, Memphis and Ohio State. 
 
"This place is a ten out of ten," he said. "Coming from Connecticut, it had to be the right place and the opportunity...to be an AD in a great town with a great brand."  
 
A former college basketball player for Monmouth College, goal one for Oblinger is to understand the campus and get a true understanding of the student-athlete experience, staffing and operations.  
 
"Basically, listening and getting a feel for everything," he said. "The main focus was to come in with an open mind and ears to student athletes' wants and needs. Our goals are improving the student-athlete experience, creating revenue and communicating our brand."  
 
Oblinger is impressed with the beauty of the campus, the sense of connectivity to the community, and the community's civic pride for Wilmington and UNCW's athletic programs. He wants to further strengthen community relationships and prepare UNCW's athletes for life after sports.  
 
Hopefully, Oblinger has time to take his family (wife, Liz and children, Quinn and Miles) to the beach in between sporting events because you won't find him on an ice rink.  
 
"I grew up playing hockey and was horrible at it. That's probably the reason I don't play anymore," he said.