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TOP JOBS

By CLINT BUCKLEY
Staff Writer

James Vilade was named as the new athletic director for The University of Texas at Tyler on Thursday, Dr. Howard Patterson, UT Tyler’s vice president of student affairs announced.

Vilade, the school’s baseball coach, will officially fill the position on Aug. 18 and continue his coaching responsibilities in baseball.

“As we move forward toward competing regionally and nationally, coach Vilade has demonstrated exceptional skills in the areas of marketing, fundraising, community service and, of course, teaching the game of baseball to all ages,” said Patterson.

“The department’s focus will continue to be on attracting, retaining and graduating high-quality students who will integrate themselves into the UT Tyler, and greater Tyler community.”

As athletic director, Vilade will direct 15 men’s and women’s programs. He has not yet signed a contract, but hopes to by Aug. 18.

“I think it’s an outstanding opportunity for myself to lead a great athletic department,” Vilade said. “We’ve had a lot of great things happen in the last five years.”

Patterson informed Vilade, who interviewed for the position more than a week ago, of the decision Wednesday morning.

Vilade, who along with his duties as baseball coach has served in an administrative role the past two years as associate AD and director of marketing, said his previous experience working with other programs may have been a contributing factor to his promotion.

“Any time you have a position open, a person from the staff is always going to be welcomed,” he said. “I like to think from the congratulations I’ve gotten from other staff members, the staff is excited about this as well.”

Vilade is serving as the hitting instructor for the Frisco Roughriders, the Texas Rangers’ Double-A affiliate, this summer. He said he has informed the Rangers of his situation and will continue his work with Frisco until Aug. 14.

In five years, Vilade has guided the Patriots baseball team to a 155-41 record. Last year, UT Tyler qualified for the American Southwest Conference tournament in its first year of eligibility. His overall coaching record is 273-93.

Vilade holds an undergraduate degree in telecommunications from Baylor and a master’s degree in sports management.