In today's "Meet the Staff" update, we take a look at assistant wrestling coach Mario Morgan. In addition to his coaching duties, Mario is the Executive Communications Specialist for the President's Office. As a collegiate wrestler, he won an individual NCAA Division II National Championship and helped his team claim three straight titles.
 
Hometown:
Chicago, Ill.
 
College:
University of Nebraska at Omaha (undergrad) and Maryville University (MBA)
 
Why did you want to work in coaching?
Athletics and coaching have been a part of my life for as far back as I can remember. My dad was a Division I college baseball and high school coach throughout my childhood.
 
Who was your biggest influence in athletics and why?
My biggest influence was my teammates from as far back as youth sports. Those individuals are still some of my best friends and we all still push each other to be better no matter what career path we have all taken.
 
What was your favorite moment in your athletic career?
My favorite athletic career moment was winning an individual NCAA National Championship and helping my team win its third NCAA Team Championship in a row. It's those moments that push me as a coach so that my athletes and have those similar experiences during their athletic careers.
 
As a fan, what is your favorite sports memory?
As a sports fan my favorite sports memory was watching Michael Jordan win his sixth NBA Championship. You knew you were watching greatness for possibly the very last time.
 
Who is your favorite athlete of all-time?
Michael Jordan
 
What is one of the most memorable Maryville games you have seen during your time on staff?
It was coaching our wrestling team to our first NWCA National Dual Meet Championships. It was such a team effort.
 
Describe a recent interaction with a student-athlete that will be a fond memory.
For me it is every senior student-athlete's last match or competition - that final hug after an amazing career.
 
What makes the Maryville athletic department a great place to work?
The Maryville athletic department has always felt like a family.
 
Since the CoVID-19 pandemic hit, what have you focused on to keep a positive state of mind?
Well during the pandemic I got engaged and purchased a new house, so I have had many positive things happen during a very stressful time.
 
Away from work, what do you do for fun and to relax?
Away from work I really enjoy trying new restaurants and traveling to new cities. Currently working on sleeping at least one night in all 50 states!