Longtime West Texas A&M AD Michael McBroom takes job at Stephen F. Austin

CANYON — A move that was widely reported earlier this week was made official on Thursday as West Texas A&M Director of Athletics Michael McBroom will be the new AD at Stephen F. Austin.

McBroom, a native of Canyon, had served in the athletic director role at West Texas A&M since 2006 and led the program to multiple accomplishments and success.

“I want to thank the people of West Texas for 24 incredible seasons and a lifetime of memories,” McBroom said in a release from West Texas A&M. “There are too many people to name, too many coaches to thank, too many student-athletes who crossed the finish line to mention. Just know that we are forever fans and will always be cheering for the Buffs and Lady Buffs.

“We leave here with hearts full, tremendous gratitude and a great adventure ahead of us. Thank you, West Texas. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. It’s been a great run.”

West Texas A&M President Walter V. Wendler said in a statement he was not surprised by the move and thankful for McBroom being part of the program for so long.

“I am not surprised Michael is moving into Division I athletics. I am surprised we have been able to keep him at WT for all these years,” Wendler said. “His impact on WT Athletics in every sport can be witnessed in both the academic excellence of our athletes and number of championships and winning records held by so many of our teams and athletes. I send Michael and his family on from WT with deep appreciation.”

In a release from West Texas A&M, McBroom was noted for his "strategic plan" for the school's athletics department that has produced numerous championships, and also improved academic performance and facilities.

During McBroom’s tenure, the school opened the Bain-Schaeffer Buffalo Stadium, an on-campus facility picked as the top Division II football stadium in the country.

West Texas A&M squads won nine national championships and more than 100 Lone Star Conference and NCAA regional championships, and has overseen nearly $100 million in new athletic facilities and renovations.

McBroom also served on the NCAA Division II Football Committee and NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Committee, ultimately serving as chair of each. He also was recognized as a 2015 Under Armour Division II Athletic Director of the Year.

This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: West Texas A&M AD Michael McBroom takes job at Stephen F. Austin