WAYNESBURG, Pa. (April 15) – Head football coach Rick Shepas will begin a new chapter in his career at Waynesburg University as he assumes the role of its new director of athletics, in addition to his head coach duties. The move comes soon after long-time director of athletics Rudy Marisa announced his retirement.

 

In addition, head women's volleyball coach Stephanie Benkowski will now serve as associate director of athletics. Both coaches had previously served as an assistant director of athletics. Shepas served in the capacity since taking over as head coach of the Yellow Jacket football team five years ago. The same holds true for Benkowski, who has also spent five years with the volleyball program.

 

Richard “Skip” Noftzger, senior vice president for institutional planning, research and educational services, feels confident about the changes in personnel and the potential they bring for further growth and change in the department.

 

“We're looking forward to the next stage in the development of our athletic programs and further connecting them to our quality academic programs,” Noftzger said. “Coach Shepas has previous experience as an athletic director at the high school level and Stephanie has been an effective administrator in assisting Rudy Marisa. We expect that she will assume even greater responsibilities as an associate AD.”

 

Both Shepas and Benkowski will officially move into their new roles on July 1.

 

Along with his work in the athletics administration at Waynesburg, Shepas also served as the athletics director at Massillon Washington High School, which is widely known for having one of the most prominent high school athletic programs in the country. He was at Massillon for seven years as its head football coach before coming to Waynesburg.

 

“I'm excited that I was considered to fill the role that Rudy has held for all these years and I think it's a great opportunity,” Shepas said.

 

Like Shepas, Benkowski also brought athletic administration experience with her when she was hired at Waynesburg. During four years as the head volleyball coach at Point Park University, Benkowski served as associate athletic director for the Pioneer athletic programs for three years.

 

Shepas and Benkowski's first fall season in their new roles begins in August of 2010.