Warner University Athletics: A Legacy of Excellence and Growth
Warner University, a private, nonprofit Christian institution established in 1968 in Lake Wales, Florida, has a rich history of fostering academic, spiritual, and athletic excellence. The university cultivates success through purpose, faith, and determination, encouraging its students to be Academically Challenging, Biblically Faithful, and Culturally Courageous. This commitment extends to its athletics program, which has seen significant developments and achievements over the years.
Academic Excellence in Athletics
Warner University student-athletes consistently demonstrate their commitment to academic success. A testament to this dedication is the recognition of 30 student-athletes as 2025 Fall Academic All-Conference honorees by The Sun Conference. This prestigious distinction celebrates those who exemplify excellence in both academics and athletics, highlighting the university's emphasis on holistic development.
Honoring a Royal Legend: The Dedication of Sikes Family Field
Saturday, March 1, 2025, marked a historic and heartfelt day for Warner University as the community gathered to honor Coach Jeff Sikes, a long-time staff member who embodies what it means to be a Royal. For 40 years, Coach Sikes faithfully served Warner University. The dedication of Sikes Family Field was a fitting tribute to his remarkable contributions and legacy.
New Leadership and Vision: Sean Hanrahan Appointed Athletic Director
Warner University's athletic program is guided by experienced and dedicated leadership. Sean Hanrahan has been selected as the university’s athletic director, bringing a distinguished career in sports and education that spans more than two decades. His wealth of experience and expertise, coupled with a proven track record of success, positions him well to lead Warner University athletics into the future.
Track and Field Program Soars to New Heights
The Warner University track and field program has experienced significant growth and success. In 2022, Hassaan Stamps was appointed as the new Director of Cross-Country and Track and Field programs. Coach Stamps came to Lake Wales after spending nine years with the ETSU Buccaneers Program, where he helped the Men’s and Women’s programs reach unprecedented heights.
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During his tenure at ETSU, the Women’s program were runners-up in the Southern Conference Championships three times in the last two years. The performance of that year’s outdoor SOCON Championships was the best Overall Team finish and second-most points scored at the Outdoor Championship meet since 1996. As the Domestic and International Recruiting Coordinator, Coach Stamps transformed the recruiting landscape.
Coach Stamps expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “I first and foremost, want to give all praise to God because without him I would not be prepared to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that has been presented to my family. I want to thank President David Hoag, Athletic Director Chrissy Moskovits, and Vice President of Student Life Anne Tohme for their diligence, transparency, and vision for this position. I am excited to bring my energy and creativity to Warner University in beautiful Lake Wales, Fla., and build a program the student-athletes, university, community, and families of the student-athletes will be proud of. Calling all Kings and Queens in the United States and Internationally."
Athletic Director Chrissy Moskovits expressed her confidence in Coach Stamps, stating, “Coach Stamps is going to bring our track and cross-country programs to the next level. He has an electric personality and an amazing story that I truly believe our student-athletes will gravitate towards."
Zach Holman's National Qualification
Warner Royal track and field athlete, Zach Holman, has qualified for Nationals in seven events. He will compete in four track and three field events on July 14 and 15. Holman's journey is particularly inspiring, as he never saw himself competing in track and field despite growing up surrounded by sports lovers.
Inaugural Women's Lacrosse Match
February 11, 2023, marked a historic moment for Warner University as it hosted its first-ever Women’s Lacrosse match on the Athletic Turf Field against St. Thomas, another university that started its women’s lacrosse program that year. This event, captured by WU Student Delaney Elder, signified the continued expansion and diversification of Warner University's athletic offerings.
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Community Engagement and Outreach
Warner University Athletics extends beyond the campus, actively engaging with the local community. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) program has been revamped to integrate faith and athletics, reflecting the university's core values.
Victory Ridge Academy Field Day
The men’s basketball team participated in Victory Ridge Academy’s annual Field Day. Victory Ridge Academy, a public charter school dedicated to serving students with special needs, hosted its annual Field Day. The event, designed to provide fun and interactive activities for students and their families, was made even more special this year thanks to the involvement of Warner University’s men’s basketball team.
Clay Target Fundraiser
On October 15, 2022, the Warner University Clay Target team held its fourth annual Clay Target fundraiser-PULL! For Warner. The event hosted over 20 teams of alumni and members of the community, as well as five recruits, fostering connections and raising funds for the program.
Facility Enhancements and Improvements
Warner University is committed to providing its student-athletes with top-notch facilities. The construction of a new athletic turf field has brought the excitement of football, flag football, lacrosse, soccer, and track & field to Warner’s campus.
Additionally, the Tye Athletic Performance Center was dedicated, providing athletes with a state-of-the-art training facility. Generous donors have also supported a matching campaign to completely renovate the baseball stadium, further enhancing the athletic infrastructure.
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A Look Back: Key Moments and Developments
Over the years, Warner University has celebrated numerous milestones and developments in its athletic program.
Coach Rod Shafer's Retirement
In 2018, Coach Rod Shafer announced his retirement after 43 years of coaching football, marking the end of an era. His dedication and leadership left a lasting impact on the program and its athletes.
Campus Improvements
Significant changes have been made around campus, including the major renovation of Spencer Hall, which added new bedrooms, updated air conditioning, a new roof, outside patios, and a whole new look.
Welcoming Pam Tebow
Warner University welcomed Pam Tebow as the Apples of Gold Scholarship Luncheon Speaker, highlighting the university's commitment to faith-based values and community engagement.
Overcoming Challenges: COVID-19 Response
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Warner University implemented a comprehensive return plan, providing students with regular video updates and resources to navigate the challenges.
Spiritual Growth and Community
Spiritual growth opportunities are a unique and important aspect of the Warner curriculum. Fun and fellowship are a big part of life at Warner. The university encourages students to join in Chapel services, fostering a sense of community and spiritual development.
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