Mike Buddie is in his fifth year as the Director of Athletics at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Buddie leads the athletic department's mission to develop leaders of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country, supporting Cadet-Athletes' 47-month experience at West Point. Under his leadership, Cadet-Athletes have achieved four Rhodes Scholars, 10 conference championships, NCAA postseason appearances, and 12 Patriot League Coach of the Year honors.

In December 2023, private funding was secured to begin the Michie Stadium Preservation Project in Spring 2024, expected to complete in Summer 2026, preserving Michie Stadium’s 100-year history. Buddie played a key role in Army's move to the American Athletic Conference for football only in 2024, enhancing the program's opportunities.

In September 2023, Buddie introduced the "Fruits of Victory" strategic plan, focusing on competitive successes, a premier Division I athletic experience, public engagement, revenue generation, and sustainability. He also announced contract extensions for six Army head coaches, including Jeff Monken for football.

AWPAA extended its partnership with CBS Sports Network for Black Knights football home games and continues facility enhancements, including the $95 million Michie Stadium Preservation Project. Buddie, also NCAA Baseball Committee Chair, has built national relationships leading to an extension with Nike and Bowl partnerships.

Before West Point, Buddie led Furman University’s athletics, achieving significant successes, including a balanced budget, major financial gifts, and 26 Southern Conference Championships. Previously, he spent a decade at Wake Forest University. Buddie, a former MLB pitcher, played for the New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers.

A native of Berea, Ohio, Buddie and his wife, Traci, have two children, Zachary and Zoe.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• The labor of love being done through the Michie Stadium Preservation Project
• The value of authenticity and consistency in leadership
• How Mike’s athletic background instilled a strong work ethic
• The impact of genuine actions and attention to small details
• The importance of constantly seeking knowledge and improving skills
• How clear and honest communication helps build strong relationships and trust
• How having a clear purpose and being driven by it provides motivation and direction
• The value of adapting and responding positively to setbacks and turning challenges into opportunities
• Mike’s mission to create a lasting impact in the lives of athletes through meaningful experiences and memories

Additional Resources:

• Website: goarmywestpoint.com
• Michie Stadium Preservation Project: https://www.michiestadium.com/
• Mike’s LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-buddie-a464102/
• Mike’s IG: @buddie52
• Books:
  • No Time For Spectators
  • The Obstacle is the Way