As Eric Schoh’s final season at Winona State University comes to a close, he plans to hang up his Athletics Director’s cap in pursuit of a new horizon. Schoh has been working at Winona State since 2012. During the last thirteen years, he has made an impact on Winona State’s sports facilities, staff, and student-athletes through his advising and contributions to numerous councils and committees. Although departing from the role, he leaves behind fond memories for his co-workers, a robust foundation for the future, and a legacy that is sure to stand the test of time.

Eric Schoch has been able to oversee many notable improvements to the athletics facilities. These improvements include many updates and installations such as the renovation of McCown Gymnasium, including “the best gymnastics practice area in the country”, the indoor golf training facility; the video board at the stadium for football and soccer; the scoreboard and infield at the baseball field; the batting cages and pitching mounds at softball; and the film room. These advancements wouldn’t be possible without the charitable efforts of many. During Schoh’s time at Winona State, they were able to raise $2.5 million for athletic endowments.

“Fundraising has become so important to the lifeblood of D2 college athletics,” Schoh said. “I can’t thank the many donors, businesses, fans, and alums enough for all they have done to financially support the Warriors over the years. It truly takes a village.”

Schoh takes pride in his NSIC and NCAA committee work on the Management Council, Membership Committee, Championships, Finance, Nominating Committee, Legislative Relief, and many Sports Regional Advisory Committees. His efforts enabled him to experience incredible honors.

“The highlight of those [Regional Advisory Committees] was being the chairman of the men’s basketball national committee. As such, I was introduced by Jim Nantz at the Salute Celebration in Atlanta in 2013.” Schoh said.

Schoh was also National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Athletic Director of the Year in 2015. This experience was especially significant to him. For one, it was determined by his fellow D2 athletic directors. What’s more, of all the Assistant Directors of the Year (ADOYs) Schoh, was selected to give the acceptance speech at the NACDA Convention.

“I’ve given numerous public speeches over the years, but this one in front of 1,500 professionals in the field of college athletics was as nerve-wracking as it gets. It was truly an honor.” Schoh said.

Although Schoh has experienced a decorated career, he says his proudest achievements are the most personal.

“My greatest moments are working with and/or helping student-athletes,” Schoh said. “The little things that nobody hears about. Those are the connections that last forever and mean the most to me.”

Supporting student-athletes and interacting with staff may be the most enriching part of being an Athletic Director. It is certainly the most memorable for Schoh.

“There’s so many great memories with our student-athletes and coaches – both on and off the field of competition. D2 college athletics is rewarding in more ways than I can describe, and I’ve really loved my 21 years as an athletic director in the NSIC.” Schoh said.

The decision to resign is, naturally, a difficult one. However, Scoch hopes that his time at Winona State has made an impact on others.  

“I’ve always wanted to be remembered as a person who truly loved and cared for the student-athletes, coaches, and staff,” Schoh said. “Not every decision is popular as an administrator, but I hope the people I’ve worked with over the years understand I always fought for them.”

According to Joey Mueller, Director of Athletic Communications, this is exactly the impact he has had. 

 “Eric’s leadership and mentorship will have a lasting impact throughout my life, and I am beyond grateful to have been able to learn from him the past four years.” Mueller said. 

Regarding the future, Schoh says he and his wife will be staying in Winona and remaining devoted Warrior Fans! He will work with Shaw Sports Turf out of Georgia, and Mammoth Sports Construction, helping with turf field construction projects in the upper midwest.    

“It’s something totally new and different, but I’m super excited about the new challenge.” Schoh said.