Athletic Department John Sisemore

John Sisemore will start his duties as Northeastern State University’s next director of athletics on July 1, 2022. 

Sisemore is coming to NSU from Crowder College in Neosho, Missouri where he served as athletic director for seven years and head coach of the Roughrider Softball team for eight years. As a coach, Sisemore led his team to a 403-97 overall record and to several Region 16 championships. During his tenure, the Roughrider Softball program was recognized as one of the best in the country.

“The search committee is looking forward to working with Mr. Sisemore. We are eager to improve the student-athlete experience and strengthen the athletic program,” Dr. Dee Gerlach, chair of the search committee, said.

During his athletic director tenure, Sisemore led Crowder College to a self-funded athletics model—only 3% of NJCAA schools meet that criteria. Under his guidance, a new state-of-the-art fieldhouse was built and was funded completely by private donations. He raised additional private funds to help grow and support the athletic program and student-athletes.

“I am impressed with the breadth of Mr. Sisemore’s experience. He has seen success at NCAA D-1 and NJCAA levels as a coach and administrator,” Dr. Steve Turner, President of Northeastern State University, said.

Prior to his administrative and coaching experience at Crowder College, Sisemore was an assistant coach for the University of Arkansas softball program from 2009-2012. While at the University of Arkansas, Sisemore was mentored by retired athletic director and Razorback Foundation head Frank Broyles.

“I would like to thank Dr. Turner and the search committee for giving me a wonderful opportunity to realize a dream,” Sisemore said.

The opportunity to join the Northeastern family is a homecoming for Sisemore who has a farm just a few miles from Tahlequah where he and his daughters, Okaley, Saylor and Siana all spent many hours throughout their childhood.