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David Spafford to Retire as Emporia State Athletics Director After Transformative Tenure
After three impactful years leading Hornet Athletics, David Spafford has announced his retirement as Director of Athletics at Emporia State University, effective June 25, 2025.
“This decision has been in the making since last November,” said Spafford. “After careful reflection on many factors, I believe now is the right time to pass the baton.
I’m grateful to President Hush for the opportunity and deeply appreciative of the support from our outstanding athletic staff over the past three years.”
A Legacy of Athletic and Academic Excellence
During Spafford’s tenure, Emporia State Athletics experienced steady and measurable growth—both on the field and in the classroom. Every Hornet sport reached its respective postseason conference tournament, with most showing year-over-year improvement in wins.
Academically, the department flourished with a cumulative GPA exceeding 3.30 in each of Spafford’s first five semesters. The fall of 2024 marked a school record 3.49 GPA, showcasing a strong emphasis on student-athlete academic success.
Major Facility Enhancements and Capital Projects
Spafford spearheaded several capital improvement projects, significantly upgrading athletic facilities:
- The Trusler Sports Complex received a new artificial turf playing surface, rededicated as Turnbull Field in April 2025.
- Musco LED lighting was installed at both Trusler and Welch Stadium.
- New chairback seating and resurfacing of the track and throws areas at Welch Stadium were completed in time for the 2024 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field National Championships.
Expanding the Hornets’ Reach
Thanks to Spafford’s leadership, Emporia State broadened its media presence across Kansas and the region.
A key milestone came with the Hornets’ appearance in the 2023 Heritage Bowl, which sparked discussions that revived the MIAA Game of the Week on television in Kansas City through a partnership with 38 The Spot.
The launch of the Hornet Sports Network on radio further expanded coverage, adding affiliates in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.
Hosting Premier Events
Emporia State hosted multiple high-profile events under Spafford’s guidance:
- The 2024 Kansas Shrine Bowl, now secured through a multi-year hosting partnership (2026–2028).
- The KSHSAA 4A, 5A, and 6A State Football Championships, set for 2025 and 2026, drew nearly 20,000 fans to Welch Stadium over a two-day span in 2025.
Internal Growth and Future Planning
Behind the scenes, Spafford led significant organizational restructuring, aligning staff responsibilities, balancing the department budget, and completing a comprehensive facility master plan with phased options for future growth.
Leadership Transition Plan
To ensure continuity, Colleen Mischke and Steve Rodecap will step in as Interim Athletics Directors. Two respected coaches will also take on expanded roles:
- Men’s Basketball Coach Tom Billeter will serve as Strategic Advisor – ONE ESU Team Culture.
- Football Coach Garin Higgins will serve as Strategic Advisor – Community Engagement.
A seven-member advisory committee will be appointed by the university to oversee and evaluate the search process for Emporia State’s next permanent Director of Athletics.
David Spafford’s retirement marks the end of a defining chapter for Emporia State Athletics. His leadership brought competitive success, academic excellence, enhanced facilities, and a broadened public profile for the Hornets.
As the university looks ahead, it does so with momentum built on a foundation of strategic progress and unified vision.