The University of Waterloo has named Roly Webster as its new director of athletics and recreation after an extensive search. 

Webster will oversee the Department of Athletics and Recreation, which includes more than 600 student-athletes and 80 coaches on 32 varsity teams. Another 200 recreational programs bring 30,000 students to Waterloo's facilities each term.

“Welcoming Roly to Waterloo is exciting for our students, staff and beyond as he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge working in a university atmosphere,” said Chris Read, associate provost, students at Waterloo. “Roly shares our passion and commitment to providing our students with outstanding athletic and recreational opportunities.”

Webster acquired extensive experience working in a university environment after spending more than 19 years in various roles at Wilfrid Laurier University, including close to 13 years in athletics and recreation. He was a co-ordinator of facilities, events and sponsorship. He also worked as a development officer managing promotions, sports information and media relations for the Golden Hawks while implementing an annual athletic fundraising and department marketing strategy.

In his latest role as executive director and chief operating officer of Laurier’s students' union, he advised and mentored the student executive, and provided leadership and direction for the full-time staff. Webster implemented a successful refinancing strategy to eliminate the students' union debt.

“Roly’s strong leadership style is undeniable and his holistic approach to developing students will be a welcomed addition to the department,” said Read.

Webster was also associate director of alumni relations at Laurier, responsible for building and cultivating lifelong relationships between the university and its 80,000 alumni.  He was promoted to interim director, providing leadership to both alumni relations and annual giving, including achieving a goal of $1.3 million raised.

“It is an absolute honour to be joining one of world’s most renowned universities and I look forward to working with all of the tremendous staff and students at Waterloo,” said Webster. “The University has an outstanding athletics program that enriches the student experience and provides a great foundation to build on. Whether it’s one of the varsity programs competing for a national championship or a student engaging in recreational programming, I intend to ensure we achieve excellence in all aspects of the department.”

Webster holds a degree in kinesiology from Laurier and a master of arts in leadership from the University of Guelph. He will begin his duties on September 8.

Portrait of Roly Webster

Roly Webster begins as director of athletics and recreation at the University of Waterloo on September 8.

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