Working in Washburn’s athletic department requires long hours, hard work and a true passion for Washburn sports. These specifications are embodied by Kyle Manthe, assistant director of athletic communications.

Before being hired as a full time employee this year, Manthe was the athletic communications intern the year prior. His time as an intern has allowed him to smoothly transition into his new position.

“It was definitely good that I was able to get a head start in learning the process of where most things are […] and getting familiar with the process of everything and how it works,” Manthe said.

The Athletic Communications department did not hire a new intern for this year. This means that Manthe still has to complete many of the tasks that he did as an intern along with the responsibilities that come with being the assistant director of athletic communications.

Manthe’s position covers the sports of volleyball, baseball, women’s basketball, women’s soccer and tennis. Gene Cassell, assistant athletic director for communications, covers football, men’s basketball, track and field, cross country and softball.

Manthe and Cassell are responsible for updating and adding all the content to the WU sports website. This includes live game statistics, pictures, releasing preview and post game stories, team rosters, player biographies, graphics and running WU Sports’ Twitter and Instagram accounts.

Cassell remarks on Manthe’s contribution to the athletic department.

“[…] He’s done a really good job,” Cassell said. “I was excited to be able to keep him around here because coming in, he knows what my expectations are.”

With the fall seasons wrapping up in postseason play and winter sports season officially kicked off, now is as busy a time as ever for Manthe. When he does find time to relax, he enjoys indulging in things that are still sports related. Whether it be playing pickup basketball or checking his fantasy sports teams.

Not only is Manthe a big fan of sports, but he is also a big fan of Washburn as well. He attended Washburn and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mass media in 2022. During his time at Washburn, Manthe also worked for the Washburn Review for two years, one of which serving as the sports editor.

Erika Yoder, assistant athletic director for external relations and fan experience, personally knows how long the hours can be working in athletics. She believes that people truly have to be passionate about the work they do in this department.

“He really loves Washburn, which is a dream for the position because he is the one highlighting Washburn,” Yoder said. “Having someone who is super passionate, not only about sports, but also Washburn is really big for us and the department.”

Manthe enjoys the time that he spends around athletics and all the different sides of the department he has been able to see through his various roles. Although much of his work is completed behind the scenes, his pride and efforts do not go unnoticed.

Edited by Jayme Thompson and Jeremy Ford