Fordham Director of Athletics David Roach Awarded Contract Extension

Bronx, N.Y. (February 27, 2014) – Fordham University Director of Athletics David Roach received a contract extension through 2019 it was announced by the institution today.
 
Roach, who was named the director of intercollegiate athletics and recreation at Fordham in October of 2012, has been busy in his first 16 months at Rose Hill, putting his mark on the athletic program both on and off the fields of competition. On the playing fields, Roach oversaw the resurfacing of the Murphy Field athletic complex and the installation of two large video scoreboards in Rose Hill Gym, allowing high-definition in-game video.
 
"There are few things as gratifying for a University president as seeing your confidence in a key player rewarded," said Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of Fordham. "In that respect, Dave Roach is the gift that keeps on giving. Therefore, I am very pleased to extend his contract, happy in the knowledge that Fordham athletics will continue to excel under his capable leadership."

The Rams enjoyed on-field success in Roach's first year with one Atlantic 10 title (softball in 2013), two NCAA appearances (softball in 2013 and football in 2013) and a WNIT bid for women's basketball. In the fall of 2013, the Fordham football squad went 12-2, setting a school mark for most wins in a season, achieving its highest ever NCAA FCS ranking (fifth) and advancing to the second round of the NCAA FCS Championship for the second time in school history.
 
The Murphy Field renovation was phase one of a two-phase project that will see Jack Coffey Field resurfaced and new chair back seating added to the grandstand in the summer of 2014. Also, temporary seating will be added on the visitor's side of the field.

"Dave is an seasoned professional who has brought a quality management focus to the area of intercollegiate athletics," said Jeffrey L. Gray, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs. "He has done an outstanding job advancing the program over the past two years that he has been with Fordham."
 
Off the playing fields, Roach teamed with the Janssen Sports Leadership Center to establish the Fordham Leadership Academy for Fordham student-athletes, which aims to cultivate, test and aid the school's student-athletes and coaches as they works towards becoming world-class leaders in athletics, academics and life.
 
Roach has also been instrumental in athletic marketing initiatives, signing a consulting and sales partnership with Front Row Marketing to handle all commercials rights for Fordham as well as partnering with LIDS Team Sports Sideline Stores to serve as the official online e-commerce vendor for Fordham Athletics.
 
"I'm thrilled that Fordham has the confidence in me to extend my contract at this time," said Roach. "Fordham is a special place with terrific leadership and outstanding student-athletes. I look forward to continuing to work with our exceptional coaches and staff as we strive for excellence."