Miami, August 10, 2023 – Miami Dade College (MDC) welcomes Mike Balado back to Miami as the College’s new athletic director.
“Mike is a great champion of MDC and a proven leader who brings years of experience across Division 1 schools to our coaches and student athletes,” said MDC President Madeline Pumariega. “I look forward to seeing him grow MDC Athletics to new heights, especially as we introduce men’s and women’s soccer next fall.”
Balado comes to MDC from Arkansas State University, where he was head basketball coach since 2017. He has coached more than 15 seasons at various institutions, including the University of Louisville, Florida Atlantic University and University of Miami.
A Miami native, Balado played basketball at Christopher Columbus High School and college basketball at St. Thomas University, where he was a two-year starter and captain, while helping his team win the regular season conference title in 1997. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from St. Thomas University, and a master’s degree in exercise and sport science from Augusta University.
“I am beyond thrilled to be named the next Director of Athletics at Miami Dade College. Having the opportunity to lead MDC Athletics with so much tradition and success is an honor. I feel that with the talent of our student-athletes and coaches the future of MDC athletics is bright,” Balado said. “I want to thank MDC leadership for their confidence and commitment in me.”
About MDC Athletics
MDC’s renowned athletic programs have earned 36 NJCAA national titles and include basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball. Most recently, the College announced men’s and women’s soccer teams coming in 2024. Many student athletes graduate from MDC with honors and transfer to top universities across the country, while others are recruited to play professionally, eventually being inducted into prestigious halls of fame. Learn more about MDC’s athletic programs at www.mdcathletics.com.