After a lengthy search, Colby Community College announced that Colby native Mike Saddler is the school’s new director of athletics.

Saddler comes from Neosho County Community College in Chanute where he has worked in a similar position since 2015. Additionally, he is the NJCAA Division I Region VI Men’s Director, serving on the men’s basketball and wrestling committees, and is chair of the baseball committee. Last fall he was also named secretary of the Jayhawk Conference.

Saddler, who played baseball for the Trojans and graduated in 2002 as a member of the All-Academic team, looks forward to returning.

“CCC has always been a special place to me,” he said. “I grew up cheering for the Trojans and was thrilled that I later got the chance to play for them as well. Now to get to come back and help guide the department and work at the college is something that I can't wait to get started on.”

The Colby High School graduate began his career as an assistant baseball coach, splitting eight years between Baker University, Fort Hays State University, and Neosho County. The 2012 Neosho team advanced to the JUCO World Series with the help of four players who were eventually drafted, two of which are in the Major Leagues today. In the fall of 2012, Saddler became Neosho’s sports information director and assistant athletics director.

He played baseball at the University of Kansas and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sports management. He also holds a master’s degree in sports administration from Fort Hays State.

“Athletic Director Saddler provides a unique depth and breadth of knowledge of athletics,” said Colby President Dr. Seth Carter. “We believe he will not only effectively lead Colby Community College to success in our respective sports, but also in the classrooms.”

Saddler begins his new position June 18. He and wife Sara have two sons, Brody, 7, and Hudson, 4.