New Faces in Athletics
There are plenty of new faces on campus this fall — including three notable individuals taking over primary roles in the Athletics Department.
Greg Lott, Ph.D.
New Director of Athletics
Lott was an All-American sprinter at the NCAA Division III level for Dickinson College before competing professionally on the European Circuit and with Team USA. He then obtained a plethora of coaching experience through stops at West Point, the National Training Center, Valparaiso University, Buffalo State, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
The scholar-practitioner hopes to continue blending (and relaying) that knowledge along with many other administrative skill sets, including his most recent six-year stint as associate athletic director and a professor of health, exercise, and sport studies at nearby Denison University.
“The tradition in this department is special,” Lott said. “I noticed so much passion in our exceptional group of coaches and administrators — pride for where they have been and excitement about where we can go. I’m humbled to join the team as we strive to enhance the culture, student-athlete experience, and competitive results.”
Tommy Zagorski
Football Head Coach
Coach Zagorski began generating buzz simply with the announcement of his hire back in January. The wellrespected coach launched his career with a stellar rise at fellow Ohio Athletic Conference school John Carroll, helping elevate the Blue Streaks to national prominence as a coordinator.
A former standout offensive lineman at Case Western Reserve, he then dabbled in the Division I ranks before returning to Ohio and starting a family. His journey has now led him back into the Division III landscape with his first college head coaching job, tasked with rebuilding the Cardinals.
“I’ve seen a gritty group of guys. many that have been counted out before,” Zagorski said. “But we are just focused on who we are — between the lines, in the classroom, in meetings, and across campus. Challenges always emerge, but this is a growth-oriented team that is going to make the University proud.”
Matt Sutton
Cross Country Coach
Matt Sutton also arrived over winter and began learning the ropes as a first-time head coach. He previously spent three years as a cross country distance specialist at Adrian College, growing the roster from 12 to 32. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs recorded their highest finish at the MIAA Championships in over a decade. A graduate of Georgia College, Sutton was a four-year runner and two-time member of the Peach Belt Conference All-Sportsmanship Team.
“The goals have been to make an immediate impact on recruiting and just add natural energy,” Sutton said. “We want to keep providing an environment where student-athletes grow and ultimately thrive.”
When you are on campus this school year, stop by to say hello or drop a note to these new faces as they begin putting their stamp on Otterbein Athletics.