Jun 20, 2026
Photo courtesy of Fredonia State Athletics The State University of New York at Fredonia has appointed Patrick “PJ” Gondek as director of athletics and recreation and promoted Angela Pucciarelli Rice, Ph.D., to associate director of athletics and recreation as well as senior woman administrator.
The State University of New York at Fredonia has appointed Patrick “PJ” Gondek as director of athletics and recreation and promoted Angela Pucciarelli Rice, Ph.D., to associate director of athletics and recreation as well as senior woman administrator.
The appointments are effective immediately and establish a leadership structure designed to support student-athletes, strengthen department operations, and advance the 2024-28 Fredonia Athletics Strategic Plan.
Gondek has served Fredonia student-athletes for more than 25 years as head men’s soccer coach, assistant director of athletics and, most recently, interim co-director of aAthletics and recreation. As director, he will provide strategic direction and oversight for the department, including work tied to student-athlete success, competitive performance, fiscal stewardship and community engagement. Gondek will also continue as head men’s soccer coach.
“I want to thank Vice President (Tracy) Stenger and President (Stephen) Kolison for this exciting and important opportunity,” Gondek said. “Angela and I look forward to working collaboratively with our coaches, staff and campus partners to elevate the student-athlete experience, and strengthen our culture of excellence in academics and athletics. Our goal is to support our student-athletes in reaching their highest potential academically, athletically and personally.”
Dr. Pucciarelli Rice has held multiple leadership roles within athletics and recreation, supporting departmental operations, compliance and student-athlete services. In her new role, she will serve as a senior operational leader responsible for compliance, internal operations, student-athlete development, and coordination across department functions.
“These appointments reflect our confidence in PJ and Angela and recognize the leadership they have already provided during an important period for Fredonia Athletics,” said Tracy Stenger, vice president for student affairs. “Their combined experience, institutional knowledge and commitment to student-athletes will help athletics and recreation continue to build a strong foundation for the future.”
Fredonia Athletics enters this new chapter with momentum across competition, facilities and community engagement. Over the past year, multiple teams earned SUNYAC postseason appearances, student athletes continued to excel academically, and the department celebrated conference-level and national individual achievements.
The university also completed renovations to its outdoor track and field complex. It hosted its first home track meet since 2008 and will host future SUNYAC championships.
Beyond competition, student athletes demonstrated a commitment to leadership and service through community engagement initiatives, while the department expanded its impact through regional events and partnerships.
Under Gondek and Pucciarelli Rice’s leadership, athletics and recreation will continue work tied to the department’s strategic plan, which focuses on wellness and well-being, academic and athletic excellence, stakeholder engagement, tradition and financial stewardship. Those priorities are intended to enhance the student-athlete experience, support staff development, strengthen community connections and position Fredonia Athletics for continued success.
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