Lake Superior State University (LSSU) has announced the addition of Darrin Madeley to its Advancement Team as the university's new Director of Athletic Development.
Madeley returns to LSSU more than three decades after helping lead the Lakers to the 1992 NCAA Division I National Championship. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening philanthropic support for LSSU Athletics while building relationships with alumni, donors, fans, corporate partners, and the broader Laker community.
Madeley brings more than 30 years of experience in hockey, athletics, and educational leadership to the position. Following his LSSU career, he played professional hockey from 1992 to 2001, including time in the National Hockey League with the Ottawa Senators and San Jose Sharks, as well as the American Hockey League's Saint John Flames and the International Hockey League's Detroit Vipers.
After his professional playing career, Madeley transitioned into athletic administration and education. He spent more than 20 years at Lake Forest Academy in Lake Forest, Illinois, serving as Athletic Director and Director of Hockey. In those roles, he provided leadership across athletics and the broader school community, cultivating relationships with students, families, alumni, community members, and business leaders while helping advance institutional priorities and organizational growth.
That combination of professional hockey experience and more than two decades of leadership in independent school athletics has prepared Madeley for his new role at LSSU, where relationship building and community engagement will be central to his work.
"Darrin brings a unique combination of experience as a former Laker student-athlete, professional hockey player and accomplished athletic administrator," said Scott Smith, LSSU Vice President of Advancement, Legislation and Alumni Relations. "His understanding of the LSSU experience, along with his extensive background in developing relationships and leading athletic programs, will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow support for Laker Athletics."
"I am beyond excited, honored and proud to announce that I am returning to Lake Superior State University to take the role of Director of Athletic Development," Madeley commented. "I get to once again represent an incredible school, alumni, community, and Sault Ste. Marie."
In his new position, Madeley will work closely with LSSU Athletics and University Advancement to develop and steward donor relationships, advance athletic fundraising initiatives, engage alumni and strengthen connections between Laker Athletics and its supporters.
About Lake Superior State University
Lake Superior State University is a close-knit university in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where faculty and staff know their students by name. Founded in 1946, LSSU offers a unique personal education shaped by its size, setting, and spirit of community. The University's one-rate tuition seeks to make education accessible to all students, while Laker athletics foster competitive spirit and school pride. Learn more at www.lssu.edu.
