Virginia Beach, VA – Regent University has announced the promotion of Michael W. Allen to Executive Director of Athletics, effective July 1, 2026, recognizing his transformational leadership and the remarkable growth of the Royals athletic department since his arrival in 2022.
Allen has served as Regent University's Director of Athletics since July 1, 2022, overseeing one of the most significant periods of growth in the history of Royals Athletics. In his new role as Executive Director of Athletics, he will continue to lead the department's strategic vision while guiding the university through its continued expansion and transition into a new era of intercollegiate athletics.
Since taking the helm, Allen has implemented initiatives that have elevated Regent Athletics both competitively and operationally. Under his leadership, the department launched The Royals Club, the university's official athletics booster organization, and established the annual Royals Open fundraising golf tournament, creating new opportunities for alumni, supporters, and community partners to invest in the success of Regent student-athletes.
Allen has also overseen unprecedented growth in student-athlete participation. Through strategic hiring, intentional recruiting efforts, and the addition of new varsity sports—including Men's Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, Baseball, and Softball—the department has increased student-athlete participation and overall team roster sizes by 57 percent during his tenure.
With an intentional focus on operational excellence and the student-athlete experience, Allen has expanded the department's staffing by increasing the number of full-time coaches, athletic administrators, and athletic trainers. These additions have strengthened the University's ability to provide comprehensive support for Royals Student-Athletes while positioning the department for sustained success.
Among Allen's most significant accomplishments has been leading Regent University's successful transition to NCAA Division III membership and securing the University's place in the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference (C2C). His leadership has positioned the Royals for long-term competitive success while aligning the department with Regent's mission of academic and spiritual excellence.
Allen has also played a vital role in advancing Regent University's $60 million on-campus athletics facilities project, scheduled for completion in Fall 2027. The addition will provide state-of-the-art athletic fields and facilities that will enhance the student-athlete experience, strengthen recruiting efforts, and support the continued growth of Royals Athletics.
"Executive Director of Athletics Michael Allen continues to provide exceptional leadership to our Athletics staff while guiding Regent University through a transformative season of growth and opportunity," said Dr. Adam Williams, Vice President of Student Life. "His vision and dedication have been instrumental in expanding athletic programs, strengthening operational support, and spearheading the University's pursuit of full NCAA Division III membership. Michael's commitment to student development is helping create an outstanding student-athlete experience that will be further enhanced with our future on-campus athletic fields and facilities. We are grateful for his servant-hearted leadership and look forward to seeing him and his team continue advancing Regent Athletics during this exciting transitional period."
As Executive Director of Athletics, Allen will continue leading the department's strategic initiatives while overseeing the continued growth of Royals Athletics as the University enters one of the most exciting periods in its athletic history.
About Regent University Athletics
Regent University Athletics sponsors 14 NCAA Division III varsity programs and competes in the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference. The Royals are committed to developing Christian Leaders through excellence in academics, athletics, and spiritual growth while preparing student-athletes to impact the world for Christ.
