Shawn Eichorst wasted no time making his first pitch to Wisconsin fans.
Soon after the university announced him as the new athletic director, Wisconsin released a letter from Eichorst addressed “To Badger Nation.” The Wisconsin native leaned into that connection right away, framing the job as both a homecoming and a responsibility.
“It is an absolute honor and privilege to rejoin the Wisconsin Athletics family, and I am humbled to serve as your Director of Athletics,” Eichorst wrote.
He pointed to his roots in Lone Rock and said he understands the pride that comes with being part of Wisconsin Athletics. Eichorst also noted that his career has taken him to schools across the country, but said there is “truly nothing like the University of Wisconsin and the incredible people who call our state home.”
In his message, Eichorst laid out the values he wants to bring to the job. He said college athletics should help change lives and support the university, and he promised that belief would remain central in his approach.
“We will hold ourselves to high standards, hold one another accountable, act with character and integrity and embrace our storied history with innovation to provide our student-athletes and coaches with the support they need for success. Athletics is at its best when it advanced the University's mission,” he wrote.
Eichorst also tried to connect directly with the fan base, citing his own time in Camp Randall and the Kohl Center. He thanked supporters for everything from showing up to buying season tickets, donating or simply representing the university and athletic department.
“Your support means everything,” he wrote.
He closed by saying he and his family are looking forward to returning to Madison, and said he wants to spend the coming weeks and months listening to fans’ memories and suggestions for how Wisconsin can improve.
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