Why Bergin’s Shocking Appointment as Marietta College’s Athletic Director Changes Everything!

In a significant move for Marietta College, President Kathleen Poorman Dougherty announced on Wednesday the appointment of Joe Bergin as the new director of intercollegiate athletics. Bergin will succeed Larry Hiser, who is retiring in May after an impressive 18 years at the helm of the Pioneers’ athletic department.

“Joe has proven to be a strong leader and effective mentor for both coaches and students,” Dougherty stated. “He has multiple talents and background experiences, not only in athletics but as a leader, as a relationship builder, and as an astute decision-maker—these are excellent qualifications for this position. He is committed to bringing a data-driven and student-centered approach to our athletics programs.”

Bergin, who returned to his alma mater in 2013 as the head men’s soccer coach, has made his mark by becoming the program’s winningest coach during his tenure. His leadership has not only been acknowledged by the administration but also by the student-athletes he has guided. “Our team is very excited that Coach Bergin will take his leadership skills to the next level and lead Marietta’s athletics program, but we are also happy that he will continue to coach the team,” said Dillon Meagle, a management major and player on the soccer team.

As the seventh athletic director in Marietta College's nearly 100-year history, Bergin follows a line of distinguished leaders, including Don Drumm, William O. Whetsel, Joe McDaniel, J. Phillip Roach, Debbie Lazorik, and Larry Hiser. Notably, he is not just a coach but also serves as an adjunct professor in the Department of Business and Economics, bringing a wealth of experience from both the sports and academic arenas.

“This institution means a great deal to me as it helped shape who I am today,” Bergin remarked. “As a graduate and someone who has spent the past 13 years here, this place is very personal to me. When President Dougherty asked me to consider this role, I felt this was another chance to give back to Marietta. I would like to thank her, the Board of Trustees, and the college’s cabinet for this opportunity.” His commitment to the college's growth is evident; he expressed enthusiasm about working with coaches, administrators, and student-athletes to enhance the institution's athletic brand and aim for more championships.

Bergin's connection to Marietta is further strengthened by his history as a student-athlete, serving as the starting goalkeeper on Marietta's only Ohio Athletic Conference Championship soccer team in 1984. After completing his degree, he played professionally for over eight years in the United Soccer League. His coaching career spans more than two decades, with notable achievements, including three conference coach of the year awards during his ten years at Agnes Scott College in Georgia. He led the Scotties to their first conference championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2012.

In addition to his extensive coaching background, Bergin has significant business experience that he plans to leverage in his new role. He spent 23 years as an account executive with 3M Company, where he worked with major clients, including Home Depot. This experience has equipped him with valuable skills in data analysis and business strategy—critical assets for leading an evolving athletic department.

“I’ve always straddled that line of being the person who coaches and the person who teaches,” he noted, emphasizing the synergy between his coaching and business backgrounds.

On campus, Bergin is a respected figure not only in athletics but also in academia. He teaches courses in the Business and Economics Department and chairs the Staff Council, representing staff interests in the President’s Cabinet. He also plays a role in the Academic Standing Committee and serves as the athletic department’s liaison to the admissions office.

As the academic year progresses, Bergin will collaborate closely with Hiser to facilitate a smooth transition in leadership. Acknowledging Hiser's influence, Bergin expressed gratitude for his predecessor's contributions: “We certainly need to recognize Larry and the impact he’s had over the past 18 years. Everyone in athletics owes him a great deal of gratitude for what he brought to Marietta. He truly learned to bleed blue.”

Bergin’s appointment marks a new chapter for Marietta College’s athletic department, blending rich tradition with a forward-thinking approach—one that promises to enhance the experience for student-athletes and the entire college community.