LAKELAND, Fla.—Athletics Director Drew Watson announced today that
Randy Lee has been selected as Southeastern's Coach of the Year and Sarah Salamin as the Staff Member of the Year for their work during 2022-23 school year.
The honorees were voted on by all coaches and staff members based on their representation of the core values of Fire Athletics as well as the expectations of them as leaders of their program.
Lee completed his first season as the men's basketball head coach, leading the team to The Sun Conference regular season championship by winning eight of their last nine regular season games, then went on to win the conference tournament and the Montgomery Bracket of the NAIA National Tournament to advance to the Round of 16 for the first time since 2014.
"I am honored and grateful to be recognized for this award," said Lee. "I share this award with my staff and players. Our department has an extremely gifted and talented group of coaches and staff which I am thankful to be a part of Fire Athletics. I look forward to the upcoming year."
"Randy is a great representation of our coaching staff," said Watson. "The success of the men's basketball program this year was impressive but, just as importantly, Randy invests in his student-athletes, expects excellence in the classroom, manages his budget well and is conscientious. His most outstanding trait, however, is that he is a good man who would not only do anything for his colleagues but anyone in need."
Salamin has moved into a new role as the Athletic Services Coordinator after serving as the assistant to the Athletics Director since 2017. Among her numerous responsibilities are coordinating special events and projects, coordinating the graduate assistant program, and working with the business office.
"I am extremely honored to be receiving this award. I am grateful for the recognition I have received for my work, as I know that there were many other
deserving coworkers nominated. This accomplishment would not have happened without great leadership within the department and the team that I get to work with. I am truly blessed."
"One of the best things you can say about someone is that they have a servant's heart, and that perfectly describes Sarah," said Watson. "When you combine that trait with her incredible work ethic, it's clear to see why she won this award. I am so thankful to her for not only her service to me, but to the whole department."
Each will receive a bonus, Adidas gear, and a reserved parking spot for the 2023-24 school year.
