April 19, 2012
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By Doug Richards
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - As a member of the UCF men's basketball team, Mike O'Donnell filled many roles with the Knights. When his squad needed a big basket, the sharpshooter was not afraid to launch a 3-pointer. If his teammates needed to get involved in the game, the point guard would set them up with crisp passes. And when the Knights needed a defensive stop, O'Donnell was ready to guard the opponent's best perimeter player.
Four years after he graduated, O'Donnell is still willing to fill any role at UCF. After working for the Golden Knights Club from 2008-11, O'Donnell served as UCF's director of men's basketball operations this past season. He helped the Knights enjoy a successful 2011-12 campaign that included the program's first trip to the National Invitation Tournament and several memorable, historic victories.
Last week, O'Donnell embarked on a new challenge, taking over as UCF's director of administrative operations. In his new role, O'Donnell will work alongside Vice President and Director of Athletics Todd Stansbury. O'Donnell will focus on UCF's community relations efforts, enhancing outreach to donors and former letterwinners.
"Mike is a great addition to our administrative staff," Stansbury said. "His outstanding experiences as a student-athlete and his passion for our university will help us strengthen our relationships and outreach efforts with our fans, our donors, our former student-athletes and our community."
One of the most recognizable student-athletes in UCF history, O'Donnell is thankful to continue contributing to the success of his alma mater.
"I have been blessed to work with so many great people here, and I am so excited that I have this opportunity to help UCF Athletics," he said. "I loved my time on the basketball staff, and it was an incredible year. I learned so much from Coach (Donnie) Jones and the entire coaching staff, and I plan on bringing that knowledge to my new position."
A native of Largo, Fla., O'Donnell started 89-consecutive contests at point guard for the Knights from 2005-08. He totaled 195 career triples, good for third in program history. As a senior in 2007-08, he averaged a career-high 11.9 points in 34.3 minutes a game. O'Donnell ranks sixth in UCF history with 319 assists and is also ninth in career steals with 140.