Pope promotes Needs, Petz to Associate ADs

JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. - Carson-Newman Vice President for Athletics Matt Pope has announced the promotions of David Needs and Kelsey Petz to Associate Athletic Directors.

Needs will continue to over see the Eagle Club as Associate Athletic Director for Eagle Club & Athletic Development, while Petz continues as the department's Senior Women's Administrator leading athletic training as Associate Athletic Director for Sports Medicine / Senior Women's Administrator. 

"David's contributions to Carson-Newman Athletics span nearly three decades and have touched countless student athletes, coaches, alumni, and supporters," Pope said. "His loyalty to Carson-Newman and passion for advancing our Christian mission through leadership of our Eagle Club and Development make him exceptionally deserving of this promotion to Associate AD. David embodies what it means to be an Eagle, and we are grateful for the wisdom, experience, and vision he brings to our leadership team.

"Kelsey has distinguished herself through exceptional leadership, a commitment to student-athlete well-being, and a deep belief in the mission of Carson-Newman University. Her recent growth as our Director of Sports Medicine to one of the key leaders within our athletics department is a testament to her work ethic, professionalism, and servant leadership.  This promotion to Associate AD recognizes the significant impact she has already made and the important role she will continue to play in the future of Eagle Athletics." 

Needs has wrapped up his second year over the Eagle Club this year and his 29th year with Carson-Newman.  He was inducted into the Carson-Newman Athletics Hall of Fame in April for his efforts as the department's head track & field coach.  

Petz just concluded her first year as the deparment's Senior Women's Administrator.  She just finished her seventh year overall in sports medicine.  

Petz has worked her way up the ranks within Carson-Newman's athletic training staff, starting as a graduate assistant in 2019, before being hired as a full-time athletic trainer.  Now, she leads the department.  

She served as the primary athletic trainer for volleyball, beach volleyball, and men's and women's golf at Carson-Newman as an Assistant Athletic Trainer from 2021 until the fall of 2023 when she took over as the Director of Sports Medicine.