UW-Superior names Nick Bursik Director of Athletics

The University of Wisconsin-Superior has named Nick Bursik as Director of Athletics.
 
“It is a sincere privilege to continue serving the institution and leading the Athletics Department as the Director of Athletics,” said Bursik. “My thanks to the search committee and Chancellor Wachter for providing me with the opportunity. During the past several years, we have made some significant enhancements and improvements to further our commitment to offering an exception student-athlete experience. I look forward to working with our staff, university, alumni and supporters in continuing that great work.”
 
Bursik had been the interim director of athletics since 2015. During his time in this role, Bursik helped orchestrate a seamless transition into the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC), of which he now serves as Vice Chair of the Council of Athletic Directors and Chair of the Membership Committee.
 
“Nick Bursik brings tremendous talent to the UW-Superior Athletics Program,” said Chancellor Renée Wachter. “His ability to think strategically, his focus on the student athlete experience and his emphasis on building a positive culture of success for both the students and coaching staff will serve the program well. I know that outreach to the community is also a priority for him. I think an exciting future is in store for Yellowjacket Athletics.”
 
The change in conferences has brought unprecedented athletic success. The Yellowjackets have claimed 14 conference championships in the past three years with more than 250 student-athletes being recognized as scholar athletes. With the move to the UMAC, UW-Superior also added four new varsity sports in men’s and women’s golf and tennis.
 
“This is an exciting time for Yellowjacket Athletics,” said Bursik. “Throughout the past several years we have done some outstanding work to reposition ourselves to allow our staff, programs and student-athletes to achieve success. I look forward to leading our continued growth; from finalizing a strategic plan, leading facility enhancements and continuing to see our student-athletes be successful in the classroom and during competition.”
 
Bursik also aided in the commitment to growing the student-athlete experience, which has included facility renovations, a partnership with Essentia Health for medical and athletic training care, and a new contract with Under Armour for apparel and uniforms. He was also key in transitioning head coaches to fulltime athletic appointments with an increased focus on head coaching duties.
 
A 2012 graduate of UW-Superior, Bursik took over as head coach of the Yellowjacket baseball team in 2013 after serving one season as an assistant coach. In addition to his coaching duties, Bursik has served as a marketing specialist on the UW-Superior campus.