Redhawks Athletics Director John Schafer retires

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KRCU) - Southeast Missouri State University’s Athletic Director announced his retirement on Thursday.

John Schafer came out of retirement to helm the Redhawks’ athletic program in 2008. During his tenure, the football team won the Ohio Valley Conference Championship, the baseball team continued its success, the gymnastics team won two conference championships, and the Redhawks swept the men’s and women’s shot put and weight throw titles at the OVC Indoor Championships.

Interim Associate Director of Athletics Brady Barke says that Schafer’s personality will be difficult to replace.

“He did such a wonderful job of creating camaraderie within the department and the university. But then also bringing back people in the community that we really needed,” Barke said.

The university will conduct a nationwide search to fill the position. Cindy Gannon will serve as interim athletics director.

Jacob McCleland, KRCU

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