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Get to Know Jim Findlay

TOWSON, Md. – The Landmark Conference is proud to spotlight the campus leaders who support and elevate the student-athlete experience. This month’s feature highlights Jim Findlay, longtime Susquehanna University men’s soccer head coach and associate director of athletics. After 28 years leading the River Hawks men’s soccer program and serving in an administrative role since 2019, Findlay recently transitioned into athletics administration full-time. From the values that define Division III athletics to the relationships built over nearly three decades at Susquehanna, Findlay reflects on the experiences that have shaped his journey.

What’s your favorite part of the DIII experience?
My favorite part of the Division III experience is working with athletes who play purely for the love of their sport, yet bring that same passion to academics, study-abroad, and everything else that shapes their college journey. Watching them grow in all those areas is what makes DIII special to me.

Who’s had the biggest impact on your professional journey?
I’ve been shaped by several important mentors, starting with my college coach, Jim Regan, who gave me my foundation, and Jack Shafer, who guided my growth on both the coaching and administrative sides. I’ve also learned a great deal from the numerous coaches/administrators at SU and across the profession. And, of course, the support of my family throughout the nearly 30 years in college athletics.

How does your department prioritize wellness and belonging?
I believe we prioritize wellness and belonging by being a tight-knit department that genuinely checks in and supports one another and recognizes there’s more to the experience than wins and losses. Our athletes, coaches, and staff have strong resources available to support their overall well-being, and we work to ensure that everyone feels valued and connected.

What makes your athletic community unique?
Our athletic community is unique because we have enjoyed a long history of competitive success across many of our programs, a coaching staff with long-tenured leaders along with younger “up and coming” coaches who’ve built sustained success, and a strong alumni base that continues to give back in meaningful ways.

How do you collaborate with coaches/staff across campus? 
Try to always make myself available for our students, coaches, and staff. Here to offer advice, support, and encouragement. Willing to “roll up my sleeves “ and go the extra mile to give everyone associated with SU athletics the best experience possible.

Fun fact about you outside of athletics?
I’m a huge soccer fan, obviously, but I’d rather watch other sports either live or on TV. Hockey, football and golf come to mind. But I do enjoy watching my kids play soccer though!

What advice would you give to your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self to stay as an assistant coach a bit longer and learn from more coaches early on. That experience could’ve possibly given me an even broader perspective in my career.

If you weren’t in athletics, what would you be doing?
Maybe construction or design. I’ve always been fascinated with watching new building projects or the renovation of existing spaces take shape.