Army West Point Athletics
From the Desk of AD #31
May 29, 2025 | General
Welcome to another edition of From the Desk of AD #31 - a communication platform created to keep you informed, engaged, and connected with Army West Point Athletics and the Army West Point Athletic Association. Through this space, I aim to share important updates from our department, celebrate the achievements of our incredible cadet-athletes, discuss topics that enhance the fan experience, and offer perspective on the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics. All of this ties back to the core pillars of our Fruits of Victory athletics strategic plan: Competitive Success, Delivering an Extraordinary Division I Experience, Public Engagement and Revenue Generation, and Sustainability.
Hello Army West Point Community,
Greetings from St. Petersburg, Florida. I'm here representing Army West Point at the American Athletic Conference meetings, joined by university presidents, athletics directors, senior woman administrators, faculty athletic representatives, and coaches, including Coach Jeff Monken and Tricia Brandenburg from our team.
We're engaging in important and forward-looking conversations on the critical issues shaping the future of college athletics, from governance and student-athlete welfare to competitive excellence.
It's a dynamic and transformative time for our industry. While the Florida sunshine is a bonus, the real value lies in the opportunity to collaborate with peers across the collegiate landscape. I'm excited to bring back new perspectives and strategies that will help advance Army Athletics and further support the remarkable cadet-athletes we serve.
Graduation!
This past week at the United States Military Academy was nothing short of extraordinary. From the Distinguished Graduate Awards to the culminating moment on Saturday, it was an honor to witness the graduation of the Class of 2025 - "Together We Thrive". This milestone marks the end of years of unwavering dedication, discipline, and sacrifice. Watching our exceptional cadets take the oath to serve and protect our nation was both humbling and deeply inspiring. Graduation Week was a powerful reflection of the core values that define West Point - and a testament to the bright future these young leaders will shape in service to our country.Â
— U.S. Military Academy at West Point (@WestPoint_USMA) May 24, 2025
Patriot League President's Cup Winners!
Army claimed the Patriot League Presidents' Cup, winning three League Championships during the 2024-25 academic year to finish atop the leaderboard.
Army West Point earned 150.25 overall points to capture the Patriot League Presidents' Cup for the fifth time in program history and the first time since the 2004-05 academic year (Presidents' Cup History), snapping Navy's record-breaking streak of 10 straight overall titles.Â
The Patriot League Presidents' Cup is awarded to the member institution with the highest cumulative sports point total in the Patriot League standings for sponsored men's and women's sports. Points are awarded based on a combination of an institution's regular-season and tournament finishes in each sport.
AAA Award
Men's lacrosse All-American AJ Pilate and women's track and field All-American Emily Fink were named recipients of the Army Athletic Association (AAA) Award at the 2025 Awards Convocation and Superintendent's Awards for Excellence and Achievement and Distinguished Cadet Awards Ceremony on Thursday, May 22.
The AAA trophy is presented annually to the male and female cadet-athletes who have rendered the "most valuable service to intercollegiate athletics during a career as a cadet." This year marks the 119th anniversary of the AAA Award, which was first awarded to football's Horatio Hackett in 1904.Â
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SAAC Enjoys BBQ at the AD's House!
Recently, Robyn and I had the pleasure of hosting our Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) for a BBQ at our home on Post. It was a great opportunity to relax, enjoy good food, and connect outside of the usual academic and athletic setting. We're proud of the leadership these cadet-athletes and it was a joy to spend time with such a dedicated and inspiring group.
— Tom Theodorakis (@TT_Army_AD) May 19, 2025
Women's Basketball Coach Katie Kuester Announced
We are beyond excited to welcome our new head women's basketball coach Katie Kuester to the West Point family. She brings exceptional leadership, a high basketball IQ, and an unmatched work ethic. Her proven ability and track record to develop student-athletes speaks volumes, and we're eager to see where she takes Army Women's Basketball.
Katie brings an accomplished resume serving as an assistant at her alma mater of Saint Joseph's, for the last 10 years, where she was a former standout guard, finishing her career in the program's top 10 for three-pointers (167) and free throw percentage (.861). She was named to the All-Big 5 Second Team in 2010-11.
— Army Women's Basketball (@ArmyWP_WBB) May 22, 2025
Recently, wrestling head coach Kevin Ward announced he accepted a role at Oklahoma State. We're wishing Coach Ward and his family all the best as he heads back to his alma mater, Oklahoma State. His impact at Army has been tremendous and he'll be greatly missed. We thank him for his leadership, passion, and dedication. We are already in the process of identifying our next great leader for Army Wrestling and I'm excited about the future of this program.Â
— Army Wrestling (@ArmyWP_Wres) May 19, 2025
Staff Promotions
We're pleased to share that recent staff promotions and role realignments of Nate Erickson, Mike Richard, and Scott Robson have been implemented to strengthen the overall effectiveness of the athletics department and address current needs. These changes are aimed at better supporting our cadet-athletes, streamlining operations, and enhancing collaboration across key areas. By recognizing internal talent and adjusting responsibilities, we are positioning the department for long-term success and continued growth.
Sports Business Journal Team of the Year
Congratulations to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and its distinguished alumni on their recent accolades in the world of professional sports!
Army West Point Athletics proudly recognized Mark Clouse (USMA '90) and the Washington Commanders for their nomination as Team of the Year. This acknowledgment highlights the leadership and excellence that West Point graduates bring to every arena.
Furthermore, a hearty congratulations to the West Point graduates with the Florida Panthers on winning Team of the Year. This achievement underscores the dedication and commitment instilled at the Academy, translating into success at the highest levels of competition.
These accomplishments reflect the enduring values of Duty, Honor, Country, and the exceptional caliber of West Point alumni. Your successes continue to inspire and exemplify the spirit of the Long Gray Line.
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— ArmyWestPoint Sports (@GoArmyWestPoint) May 23, 2025
— ArmyWestPoint Sports (@GoArmyWestPoint) May 23, 2025
Track and Field at Regionals
THANK YOU
I'd ask you to continue to do what you can to support Army West Point Athletics and our cadet-athletes by:
• Attending athletics events and competitions – home and on the road!
• Purchase season tickets, join the Army A Club, and become a corporate partner
• Get others to do the same
Tom Theodorakis
Director of Athletics
Army West Point
Email:Â AthleticDirector@WestPoint.edu
X: @TT_Army_AD