Coach Mike Mardis – In His Words
My journey to becoming a coach and instructor at UW-Whitewater has been anything but conventional.
From my days as a student-athlete to my career as a trauma nurse, I’ve always been driven by a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference. Today, as the tight ends coach and a kinesiology department instructor, I’m thrilled to bring my unique blend of experiences and knowledge to the table.
I’m excited to contribute to the success of our athletes both on and off the field.
My Journey
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My educational journey began at Indiana State, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During my time as a student-athlete, I had the honor of being elected as a team captain and was recognized with several academic and athletic honors. These achievements laid the foundation for my future endeavors, instilling in me the values of hard work, discipline, and leadership.
After completing my undergraduate studies, I embarked on a career in nursing, working as a trauma nurse for several years. While I found great fulfillment in helping others during their most vulnerable moments, my passion for football and coaching never waned.
I knew that I wanted to combine my love for the sport with my desire to make a positive impact on young athletes. In pursuit of this goal, I made the decision to return to school and pursue a Master of Business Administration at UW-Whitewater.
This decision not only allowed me to broaden my knowledge and skills but also brought me closer to the university that would become my second home. As a graduate assistant for the offensive line, I had the opportunity to work closely with the coaching staff and gain valuable experience.
One of the aspects that drew me to UW-Whitewater was the culture and location near my hometown. The university has a rich tradition of athletic excellence and a strong sense of community. I knew that being a part of this institution would allow me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of student-athletes.
Coaching Philosophy
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As a coach, my philosophy centers around relationships.
I firmly believe that coaching is more than just X’s and O’s; it’s about connecting with athletes on a personal level and helping them grow both on and off the field.
I bring a diverse wealth of knowledge from my experiences as a player and coach in various football systems. I’m passionate about football and the opportunities it provides for personal and academic growth.
In addition to my coaching responsibilities, I have the privilege of serving as an instructor in the kinesiology department. Teaching allows me to share my knowledge and experiences with students who are eager to learn and pursue careers in the field of health and physical education.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see students develop a passion for their chosen profession and equip them with the tools they need to succeed.
Who I Am
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My journey to UW-Whitewater has been a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing new opportunities.
From my days as a student-athlete to my career as a trauma nurse and now as a coach and instructor, I’ve been fortunate to have a diverse range of experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the UW-Whitewater community and contribute to the success of our athletes in the classroom and on the field. I look forward to continuing this journey and making a lasting impact on the lives of those I have the privilege to work with.
