Penn State Schuylkill names new director of athletics

Darcy Medica, interim chancellor of Penn State Schuylkill, announced the appointment of Joseph J. Godri as the director of athletics, effective Oct. 2. 

Godri brings with him 24 years of experience acquired at three different Division I universities. Most recently, he served as head baseball coach at Villanova University.

“Joseph’s background with NCAA Division I athletics, proven leadership skills and strong advocacy for the student-athlete experience will enhance the excellence of the Penn State Schuylkill sports program,” Medica said.  

As head baseball coach at Villanova for 15 years, Godri managed and supervised more than 50 individuals in all aspects of the organization’s business structure. He developed a national recruiting footprint and marketing plan for the program. This included cultivating a vibrant Villanova Baseball Friends group that included adding several endowments and scholarship funds, along with major gifts to upgrade facilities to enhance player development and experience. As chair of the Big East Conference Coaches Association, he worked closely with the League Office to secure increased game coverage across traditional and digital platforms.

"I am thankful to Dr. Medica and the search committee to be extended this opportunity,” Godri said. “I look forward to growing our Penn State Schuylkill athletic brand with the support of our coaches and staff. Our primary goal will always be to graduate complete student-athletes prepared for the game of life. I will focus on enhancing our student-athletes’ experience on campus, while creating a competitive culture in the classroom and in competition.”

Godri finished No. 2 in all-time wins at Villanova Baseball, which is the third oldest D1 baseball program in the nation. Additionally, the highest number of Villanova players were drafted into the professional leagues while he served as head coach. 

Godri served both as a talent adviser and as trials assistant coach with Team USA Baseball where he consulted with the general manager on the yearly player NCAA prospect list and supervised and evaluated practice and game play of student-athletes. He also successfully managed numerous community relations projects in metropolitan areas. Before Villanova, Godri served as an assistant coach at the University of Utah, New Mexico State University and the University of Pittsburgh.

A native of the Philadelphia area, Godri graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor of science degree in education. He earned a master of arts in higher education administration and business marketing from New Mexico State University. 

Godri lives with his wife Michelle in Linfield, Pennsylvania.

Penn State Schuylkill fields 11 men’s and women’s teams as a member of Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) and United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA).