Dear King’s Community,
I am pleased to announce that Matthew Bartley will soon be joining King’s as our new Athletics Director.
Matt brings with him a deep passion for student development through sport, and over a decade of leadership experience in athletics and education. From his time as Director of Athletics at Halifax Grammar School to his most recent role as a Lecturer in Physical and Health Education at St. Francis Xavier University, Matt has consistently championed inclusive, student-centred programming that fosters both excellence and belonging.
In addition to his academic and administrative credentials, Matt is a nationally recognized coach in goalball—a Paralympic sport for athletes with visual impairments. As an assistant coach for Canada’s men’s national goalball team, he has helped lead athletes to success on the national and international stage. His expertise in student development through sport is a perfect fit for King’s approach to athletics, one that fosters well-rounded athletes who balance healthy competition on the court or field with academic and personal growth.
Matt is excited to build on the strong foundations of King’s athletics and work closely with our students, alumni, coaches, faculty and fellow staff to further enrich the role of sport in our university community. He will report to Chief Enrolment & Student Life Officer Kutay Ulkuer to ensure that athletics at King’s is fully integrated into both enrolment and student life more generally. While the transition of athletics, which has historically reported to the President, will start immediately, Matt will assume his role full-time as of August 11.
I want to thank Trish Miles for the leadership and stewardship she has provided over the past year as Interim Athletics Director. I look forward to her continued dedication and valuable contributions to the athletics department and our community.
Our athletics program is central to our future as a thriving university. Matt’s appointment represents a new chapter in UKC athletics and its continuing role in promoting a collaborative and welcoming campus culture for all.
Sincerely,
Bill
William Lahey
President and Vice-Chancellor
