By Jake Brown ’14
“Only the mediocre are at their best all the time.” That motivational quote was delivered not by Vincent Lombardi, Muhammad Ali, or any other famous sports figure. Those were the words of Cory Ward, Gordon College’s Mr. Everything. This year, Ward has added Assistant Athletic Director to his impressive resume that already includes Head Field Hockey and Lacrosse coach. His average work day of 10 to 12 hours consists of office and on-field work, where he preps the fields for every sport, not just the ones he is affiliated with. Even with Field Hockey now in full swing Ward finds time for some preseason work with his Lacrosse team.
Being a coach, Ward brings a different and useful perspective as Assistant Athletic Director. That experience gives him a plain view of where improvements are needed.
“My main goals as Assistant AD are to make each sport fully functional,” Ward said. “That means that each team should have proper venues and be fully staffed with quality coaches.”
Already a busy man, he is looking forward hitting the road in search of new talent.
“A personal goal of mine is to spend lots of time recruiting,” said Ward. “In a few weeks when the season gets started I’ll start making some trips.”
Ward was quick to praise the work Jon Tymann has done in his three years as Athletic Director, noting he is taking the appropriate steps to improve the program.
“He’s grown our staffing tremendously,” he said. “That includes bringing in more interns which is helpful for the teams and the school as a whole. He also helped develop a new grad program which makes it possible for recent graduates to be brought in as assistants.”
For Gordon College sports fans and athletes, it’s comforting to know there are people working hard towards establishing an elite program. Cory Ward’s worth ethic highlights the entire staffs dedication. With his help it’s clear this department has a bright future.
