PULASKI, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee Southern Department of Athletics has announced several key administrative appointments and role realignments designed to strengthen departmental operations, enhance student-athlete support, and position Firehawk Athletics for continued growth and success.
Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Brandie Paul announced the following appointments: Alexis Oster as Director of Athletic Operations, Justin Watson as Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations, John Dochety as Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations, Dylan Gray as Director of Athletic Wellness, and Madison Bennett as Head Athletic Trainer. Each member of the leadership team will continue serving in their current roles and responsibilities while assuming these additional administrative duties.
"These appointments represent an important step forward in strengthening the foundation of our athletics department," Paul said. "Each of these individuals brings a unique skill set, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to serving our student-athletes. Together, they will help us continue building a culture of excellence while enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved with Firehawk Athletics."
Alexis Oster Named Director of Athletic Operations
As Director of Athletic Operations, Oster will oversee the administrative and operational management of the athletics department. Her responsibilities include departmental and team budget oversight, coordination of game day operations for all home contests, management of the campus Health Club, and collaboration with coaches, wellness staff, and campus departments to ensure efficient and effective departmental operations. Oster will also serve as a designated Game Day Administrator.
"I am honored to step into this role and continue serving UT Southern Athletics," Oster said. "I look forward to helping create an environment where our coaches and student-athletes have the resources and support they need to succeed. My goal is to ensure our operations run smoothly and efficiently while contributing to the continued growth of Firehawk Athletics."
Justin Watson Named Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations
Watson will oversee the day-to-day internal operations of the athletics department while assisting with departmental compliance efforts. His role includes supporting communication, staffing, scheduling, departmental organization, and internal projects. Watson will work closely with coaches, staff, and campus partners to ensure efficient departmental operations and will also serve as a designated Game Day Administrator.
In addition to his new administrative responsibilities, Watson will continue serving as UT Southern's head men's and women's cross country coach and head men's and women's track and field coach.
"I'm excited for the opportunity to take on this role and help strengthen our internal processes," Watson said. "A successful athletics department depends on strong collaboration and organization, and I look forward to working alongside our coaches and staff to provide the best possible experience for our student-athletes."
John Dochety Named Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations
Dochety will oversee external initiatives that support the visibility, growth, and financial development of the athletics department. His responsibilities include assisting with fundraising efforts, sponsorship development and management, community and corporate partnerships, and external relations. He will also serve as a designated Game Day Administrator.
Dochety will continue in his role as the head men's and women's golf coach while leading the department's external operations efforts.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to help advance the mission of UT Southern Athletics," Dochety said. "Building meaningful relationships with our supporters, sponsors, and community partners is essential to the future of our programs. I look forward to expanding those connections and creating new opportunities that benefit our student-athletes and the university."
Dylan Gray Named Director of Athletic Wellness
Gray will oversee the administrative and organizational aspects of athletic wellness, focusing on documentation, records management, compliance-related processes, and the coordination of wellness services. He will work closely with athletic training staff, coaches, student-athletes, and campus partners to ensure all wellness-related records and procedures are completed accurately and maintained appropriately.
Gray will continue serving as an athletic trainer while taking on his expanded administrative role.
"I am excited to continue serving our student-athletes in this expanded capacity," Gray said. "Athletic wellness extends beyond treatment and care. Ensuring that documentation, processes, and resources are properly managed helps provide a strong support system for our student-athletes and supports their success both on and off the field."
Madison Bennett Named Head Athletic Trainer
As Head Athletic Trainer, Bennett will oversee the medical care and athletic training services provided to UT Southern student-athletes. She will be responsible for evaluating injuries and illnesses, providing treatment and rehabilitation, determining participation restrictions when necessary, and coordinating referrals for specialized medical care.
"It is a privilege to serve our student-athletes as Head Athletic Trainer," Bennett said. "Their health and well-being remain the top priority. I am committed to providing high-quality care, building trusting relationships, and helping our student-athletes perform at their highest level while maintaining their long-term health and safety."
Paul believes the collective experience and dedication of the department's administrative team will have a lasting impact on the future of Firehawk Athletics.
"Alexis, Justin, John, Dylan, and Madison are outstanding professionals who care deeply about our student-athletes and our institution," Paul said. "Their leadership will strengthen every area of our department, from operations and fundraising to wellness and healthcare. I am confident they will make a tremendous impact as we continue moving UT Southern Athletics forward."
With these appointments, UT Southern Athletics continues its commitment to providing exceptional support for student-athletes while enhancing operational excellence and fostering continued growth across all programs.
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