Florida Poly’s student-athletes take center stage at inaugural media day
With the fall 2026 semester just days away, Florida Polytechnic University’s first student-athletes donned their new uniforms, laced up their cleats and stepped into the spotlight Monday, Aug. 10, for the University’s inaugural media day for the men’s and women’s soccer and cross country teams as they prepare for their first season of competition.
Auburndale partnership gives Florida Poly Athletics a home base
Florida Polytechnic University and the City of Auburndale are partnering to provide home venues for the University’s newly launched athletics program. Florida Poly will now host practices, home games and special events for several sports at Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, Auburndale Softball Complex and the Auburndale Community Center.
NBA champion to lead Florida Poly Men’s Basketball
Few coaches can match a resume that includes winning an NBA championship alongside Michael Jordan and leading a college program to sustained success on the national stage. Dennis Hopson has done both. Florida Poly has named Hopson as the first head coach of its Men’s Basketball program.
Florida Poly steps up to the plate with first baseball coach
Florida Polytechnic University has named TJ Marik as the inaugural head coach of its baseball program. The addition brings another instrumental leader to the University as it continues to establish its new athletics program. Marik brings substantial head coaching experience and a strong background in player development to the new role.
Florida Poly scores veteran coach for men’s soccer
Florida Polytechnic University has named Clay Roberts the first head coach of its men’s soccer program, adding an experienced team builder as the University continues launching its new athletics department.
Florida Poly tips off women’s basketball with first head coach
Florida Polytechnic University has named Nikki Jessee as the first head coach of its women’s basketball program, adding another experienced leader as the University continues to build Florida Poly Athletics.
Florida Poly kicks off women’s soccer program with inaugural head coach
Florida Polytechnic University has named Jack Paris as the first head coach of its women’s soccer program as the University continues building its new athletics department.
Florida Poly names ‘local legend’ as first head softball coach
Florida Polytechnic University has named Mike Settle as its inaugural head softball coach, adding a veteran leader with deep Polk County roots to the University’s new Florida Poly Athletics program.
Florida Poly taps veteran Lakeland coach to lead cross country program
Florida Polytechnic University has named Stephanie Bylander as its inaugural head coach for men’s and women’s cross country as part of the University’s new Florida Poly Athletics program.
Florida Poly drafts first athletic director as program takes off
As Florida Polytechnic University prepares to debut its inaugural collegiate athletics program this fall, featuring eight sports, new coaches, and a roster of high-achieving STEM-focused student athletes, Derek Lower has been selected as the University’s first athletic director.
