May 23, 2008

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - Naval Academy Superintendent Vice Admiral Jeffrey Fowler announced this morning that he has extended the contract of Director of Athletics Chet Gladchuk through 2015.

Gladchuk, has overseen a renaissance of Navy athletics in his seven years as Athletic Director. His administrative leadership has helped lead the program to one of the most successful periods in school history.

The 2007-08 sports season ranks as the most successful in school history as the Midshipmen set school records for total wins (315), winning percentage (.671) and conference championships (12). The Midshipmen were also successful in the classroom, leading the nation in graduation rate for student-athletes for the fourth-consecutive year. During Gladchuk's tenure at the Naval Academy, he has seen the Midshipmen win 47 conference titles and advance to the postseason 32 times, including five-straight bowl games.

Gladchuk's efforts have been recognized on a national level as well, as the Division IA Athletic Directors Association named him the 2005 Bobby Dodd Athletic Director of the Year. Additionally, he was recognized by the Secretary of the Navy for his contributions and service to the Navy and the Naval Academy with the Superior Public Service Award to the Department of the Navy.

Gladchuk and the NAAA have also teamed up with the Naval Academy Foundation to raise over $75 million in private giving for facilities such as Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the Brigade Sports Complex (hockey and tennis), Max Bishop Stadium (baseball), varsity squash courts, various team locker rooms and a number of practice facilities.

Gladchuk is heavily involved with NCAA governance and was recently selected to serve on the NCAA Leadership Council. He has also served as the Chairman of the Executive Committee in the Patriot League and a member of the NCAA Olympic Sport Liaison as well as numerous other conference and NCAA committees.