Heath Schroyer Leaves Lasting Legacy at McNeese State Heath Schroyer, who served as athletic director at McNeese State University, is departing for a new role as a senior athletic administrator at LSU. His tenure at McNeese, marked by resilience and transformative leadership, has left an indelible mark on the institution and the broader community. Schroyer’s journey began with a vision for the athletic programs, but his path was far from smooth. Schroyer initially faced significant challenges when he took the helm of McNeese’s athletic department in early 2020. The university’s programs were in disarray, burdened by three million dollars in debt and physical infrastructure in dire condition. Hurricanes had exacerbated the situation, leaving the campus in chaos. The basketball arena had structural damage, the football program was on NCAA academic probation, and facilities lacked basic amenities like a press box and lighting. Despite these obstacles, Schroyer ensured that athletic events continued without interruption, even as practices were held in various locations across Southwest Louisiana. His leadership extended beyond the athletic programs. Schroyer played a pivotal role in rebuilding the relationship between McNeese and the local community. He transformed the university into a partner in its own recovery, rallying residents to invest both financially and emotionally in the Cowboys. This effort helped shift public perception of the athletic programs, turning them into a source of pride for the region. Schroyer’s impact was recognized by former McNeese President Daryl Burckel, who praised his ability to market the university’s athletics. “I needed somebody who could sell McNeese athletics,” Burckel said at the time of Schroyer’s appointment. “He has more than fulfilled what I thought he could do.#lsu #heath_schroyer #mcneese_state_university #daryl_burckel #ayla_guzzardo
Will Wade back to LSU: Ex-Tigers coach returning after one season at NC State Will Wade is set to return to LSU as head coach after one season at NC State, according to CBS Sports. The Tigers have been actively pursuing their former coach following NC State’s NCAA Tournament exit, aiming to reinvigorate the program by bringing back the last coach to lead LSU to a postseason appearance. LSU is expected to part ways with current head coach Matt McMahon on Thursday. Wade, who previously coached LSU from 2018 to 2022, is anticipated to be formally introduced as the Tigers’ new coach later in the week. Wade’s departure from NC State comes after a season marked by challenges, including a first-round NCAA Tournament loss to Texas. Despite his initial dismissal of LSU rumors, the move appears inevitable as LSU seeks to capitalize on his track record. During his tenure at LSU, Wade guided the team to three NCAA Tournament appearances in five seasons, though one season was canceled due to the 2020 pandemic. His return to Baton Rouge follows a contentious exit from LSU in 2022, when the program faced NCAA allegations tied to alleged rule violations during his five-year tenure. The buyout terms for Wade’s contract with NC State are significant: $5 million remains due, but the figure drops to $3 million after April 1. With the college basketball transfer portal opening in early April, Wade’s focus will shift to reshaping LSU’s roster. The Tigers’ current roster includes several returning players, such as Michael Nwoko, Jalen Reed, and Dedan Thomas, who averaged 15.3 points and 6.5 assists as a junior before sustaining an injury. However, key contributors like Max Mckinnon and Marquel Sutton will not be available for Wade’s next season.#lsu #nc_state #will_wade #matt_mcmahon #heath_schroyer
