Dear Friends of Tribe Athletics,
I hope that everyone's 2023 is off to the best possible start! Like many of you I decided to begin the new year with some resolutions, both for myself and for Tribe Athletics.
Spending more time with my family is at the top of the list. Plus, I will be getting back on the treadmill and focusing more on self-care. In large part this goal is inspired by our student-athletes, who are relentless in their quest to be their best.
Beyond our individual health, the well-being of our entire Athletics community is so important. Last week our coaches and staff completed a program called "A Long Talk about the Uncomfortable Truth." The multiple sessions dealt with the history of racism in America and were highly interactive and engaging. Honest conversations are critical as we continue to work toward building a department that is welcoming to all. Our 500 student-athletes will also participate in "A Long Talk" upon their return to campus. I'm certain that many valuable conversations are ahead.
As we consider the many possibilities that the new year brings, we are committed to making sure that the leadership in our department is as strong and effective as possible. We are making great progress in our search for the new head volleyball coach. The pool of candidates is terrific as W&M is a very attractive destination with a long history of exceptional players and coaches.
Last month at volleyball's Final Four, the American Volleyball Coaches Association recognized former Tribe coach Debbie Hill as one of the 15 pioneers in the sport. Hill coached 30 of the Tribe's first 33 varsity seasons and compiled a 587-413 record while winning numerous coaching accolades. Additionally, former Tribe alumnae Jennifer Torns Petrie '92, a two-time CAA Player of the Year as an outside hitter, is in her 24th season as head coach at San Diego. The Toreros (31-2) reached the Final Four for the first time in program history, before falling short to Texas in the championship.
I know many of us are still celebrating last year's historic football season and today there is another reason for excitement—the 2023 football schedule is being released, meaning it's time to make plans to buy your season tickets! Speaking of football, congratulations to Vincent Brown, who was just named head coach at North Carolina A&T. We thank Vincent for his four years as defensive coordinator and wish him the best.
On Monday, the university will be closed as the nation remembers and honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Members of W&M Athletics, along with the rest of our campus community, will honor Dr. King in a number of ways, befitting this great man whose vision guides us to this day. Last year for the first time, the CAA scheduled all 10 teams to play on MLK Jr. Day to assist them in promoting initiatives on eliminating racial and social injustice. This year five teams, including W&M will compete. The Tribe will be playing at #23 Charleston and you can find all the ways to follow the action by going to TribeAthletics.com.
There are two more important dates to flag. On Jan. 30, Lord Botetourt Auction tickets go on sale. This premier event will take place on the evening of Feb. 25 and is the Tribe's biggest fundraiser of the year. This year's edition will mark the 34th auction and we are working to make it the biggest one yet! Also, Golden Weekend (Feb. 4 and 5) is just weeks away! Men's basketball will play UNCW on Feb. 4 in the annual Gold Rush game and women's basketball will take on Monmouth on Feb. 5 in the Golden Game. Let's all grab our gold garb and rock Kaplan!
From my perspective, the months ahead have unlimited potential. I predict moments of exhilaration, new personal bests and hopefully, championships! Yes, I am an optimist, but given the nature of Tribe Athletics and my green-colored glasses, 2023 looks awfully good.
Go Tribe!
Brian D. Mann
Director of Athletics
