John Czarnecki was named Director of Athletics at SUNY Cobleskill in August 2026, becoming the seventh person to serve in the role since the College first became affiliated with a national governing body in 1946.
Czarnecki joined Cobleskill following a successful tenure as Director of Athletics at SUNY Polytechnic Institute. At SUNY Poly, he provided leadership for a 13-sport NCAA Division III athletics department of more than 200 student-athletes while overseeing strategic planning, compliance, staffing, fundraising, facilities, and a $2 million operating budget.
One of Czarnecki's most notable accomplishments was leading SUNY Poly's transition into the Empire 8 Conference. He also oversaw the completion of the final phases of the institution's $25 million Campus Center athletics renovation project, which included a new gymnasium, locker rooms, athletic training facilities, coaches' offices, a student-athlete lounge, and fitness center. In addition, he expanded departmental initiatives through new corporate sponsorship opportunities, a restructured leadership model, the reinstatement of the Athletic Hall of Fame, and enhanced alumni, donor, and student-athlete engagement efforts.
Prior to joining SUNY Poly, Czarnecki served as Director of Athletics at both Hartwick College and Hilbert College. Throughout his nearly two decades in collegiate athletics, he has also held positions as a graduate assistant, SUNYAC intern, sports information director, assistant basketball coach, assistant athletic director, and associate athletic director, providing extensive experience across nearly every facet of athletic administration.
As Director of Athletics, Czarnecki provides strategic leadership for SUNY Cobleskill's intercollegiate athletics, fitness, and recreation programs. He oversees the continued development of the student-athlete experience while supporting competitive success, strengthening relationships across campus and within the community, and positioning Fighting Tiger Athletics for continued success.
Czarnecki earned his bachelor's degree from SUNY Potsdam before completing his master's degree at SUNY Cortland. He and his wife, Jill, have two children, Jason and Jenna.
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