MARCELO
RICHARD M. SCHAPS
CHAIRMAN & CEO, VAN WAGNER GROUP
JOHN MASSONI
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, VAN WAGNER GROUP
MIKE PALISI
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
MARK DONLEY
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
DIANA LEPORE
VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING & OPERATIONS
FIU returns to The Cage for its annual Homecoming Game on Saturday, Sept. 23 vs. Liberty in a Conference USA clash that is slated for a 6:30 p.m . kickoff in Miami .
Saturday’s game will be aired on ESPN+ with AJ Ricketts (pxp) and Jonathan Cyprien (analyst) calling the action. The game can also be heard on Miami’s WQBA 1140 AM with Corey Brooks (pxp) and Patrick Murray (analyst) behind the mic.
The pregame show on WQBA 1140 AM will start 30 minutes prior to kickoff and a postgame show will follow the conclusion of the contest.
The Panthers and Liberty will be meeting for the first time since the only previous meeting in 2020 and for the first time with both members of Conference USA, with the Flames joining the league prior to this season.
Liberty will mark the Panthers’ second league opponent this season after opening the campaign with a 22-17 road loss at Louisiana Tech on August 26.
FIU has won each of its last three games entering Saturday’s clash with undefeated Liberty - the first such streak since 2019.
The last time the Panthers have won four consecutive games was during the 2018 season.
FIU is a perfect 2-0 this season in Miami entering Saturday’s meeting with the Flames.
FIU will be seeking the best start to a season over the first five games when it hosts the Flames for Homecoming on Saturday in Miami.
The Panthers’ 3-1 start to 2023 matches their best four-game start in program history, which they also accomplished in 2017 and 2011.
A win over Liberty on Saturday and a 4-1 record would be the best start in program history - as FIU dropped their fifth game in both 2017 and 2011 after starting with three wins in the initial four games.
HEAD COACH INFO
FIU Head Coach: Mike MacIntyre (Georgia Tech ‘89)
Overall Record: 53-74 (11th season)
Record at FIU: 7-9 (2nd season)
LIBERTY Head Coach: Jamey Chadwell
Overall Record: 102-57 (14th season)
Record at LU: 3-0 (1st season)
All general admission gates will open 60 minutes prior to kickoff for FIU home football games. At the time that the gates are open to the public, all concession stands will be operational, and all security and ushers will be in place. The following rules are in effect at all FIU events.
ADA Parking: Accessible Parking is available in the Lot 7 on the Westside and in the VIP Lot on the south side of FIU Football Stadium on a first come, first served basis. A hanging placard or accessible license plate is required to gain access to this parking lot.
ADA Service Animals: Service animals are allowed in the stadium if they are a registered service animal and are seated in ADA seating areas. Emotional support animals are not permitted at FIU athletic events.
Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic beverages are not permitted to be brought into FIU Football Stadium. Alcohol sales are allowed at FIU Football Stadium and point of sales are located throughout the stadium concessions stands. Must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to purchase alcohol and there is a limit of two beverages per sale per person.
Baby Changing Areas: Baby Changing areas are located in the men’s and women’s restrooms between Gates 7&8 and 9&10 as well as the family restroom by Gate 3 (currently closed for 2022 season due to construction). If you need assistance in locating the restrooms, please find the nearest FIU Stadium staff for assistance.
Banners: Signs are authorized inside FIU Stadium; however, no signs with poles, sticks or braces are allowed.
Bus Parking: Parking for charter buses will be available on game day and is located in Lot 4.
Cameras: No video cameras are permitted inside the stadium. Still cameras (professional) or cameras with lenses over five inches long and/or 50mm and above are also not permitted. Camera and recording device policy varies per event.
Children Policy: Age restrictions and the ticket amount price vary by event and are at the discretion of the event organizers. FIU Athletics requires everyone 2 years old and above to have a ticket for admission into all FIU Athletic events. Children under the age of 2 with free admission are not allowed to occupy an individual seat and must sit on the ticket holder’s lap.
Clear Bag Guidelines: In the interest of public safety and following the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) Best Practices Guide, FIU Athletics follows these guidelines.
Each ticket holder, including children, may carry one approved clear bag, such as a one-gallon clear plastic storage bag (Ziplock bag or similar), plus a small purse about the size of a hand. The following bags will be permitted inside FIU athletic facilities and are subject to search:
The following bags will be permitted inside FIU athletic facilities and are subject to search.
• Clear plastic bag that does not exceed 12” by 6” by 12”.
• Clutch or small purse, with or without a strap that does not exceed 6.5” by 4.5”.
• Equipment bag for necessary medical items.
• Diapers and wipes can be carried in a clear bag for age-appropriate children accompanied by an adult.
Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to: large purses, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, mesh bags, or any bag larger than the permissible size. Tinted or printed-pattern plastic bags are not clear, so they will not be permitted.
Fans can wear or carry items such as binoculars, hand-held electronic devices and cameras (with lenses shorter than four inches) without carrying cases. Fans may carry in seat cushions that will be screened upon entry.
Concessions: There are 3 permanent concession stands and multiple concession kiosks located throughout the stadium on the main concourse.
Disability Accommodations (Seating): Seating for guests with disabilities is located throughout FIU Football Stadium on the first and second level concourses with ramps and elevator access. Customers who require special assistance may contact stadium security or are urged to make all ticket arrangements well in advance by contacting the FIU Athletics Ticket Office at 305-3484263.
Elevators: There are five elevators located inside FIU Football Stadium. Four elevators are located on the south side of the stadium in which two elevators are intended for general public access to the 2nd level and two elevators are for Suite and Stadium Club access only. In addition, there is one elevator located inside the Kirk R. Landon Field House Lobby.
First-Aid/Medical Services: The stadium first-aid cart is located in the SE corner of the stadium on the main concourse across from gate 4 (behind Section 112). Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Teams will provide emergency medical services in the stadium on game day. First Aid locations can vary for outside stadium events and fans are encouraged to ask the nearest stadium event service representative for location.
Guest Services: FIU is committed to provide fans the ultimate game day experience. Should you have any questions or need assistance, Guest Services centers are located inside and around FIU Stadium for your convenience on the main concourse.
Lost and Found: All lost items found can be turned into the Guest Relations Tents on the North and South Concourse and the University Credit Union Box Office located in the Kirk R. Landon Field House and will be held for thirty days. All individuals can call 305-348-4263 or visit the University Credit Union Box Office to see if your item(s) has been found.
Merchandise: FIU merchandise can be purchased at the stadium at FIU Bookstore vendors on the North and South Concourse.
Prohibited Behavior: Unruly, threatening, or disruptive behavior such as profane and abusive language, smoking, fighting, throwing objects and drunkenness will not be tolerated and can result in ejection, arrest, and/or loss of ticket privileges. Should you observe any of this disruptive behavior, please notify your nearest security or law enforcement officer. Standing on seats/bleachers is strictly prohibited. Artificial noisemakers are not permitted in FIU Football Stadium for FIU Football home games per Conference USA. Such items will be removed immediately. Signs of a derogatory nature directed toward individual players, teams, staff, spectators or game officials are not permitted. Stadium procedures prohibit fans from entering the field of play unless they are properly credentialed. Violators are subject to ejection and/or arrest.
Prohibited Items: Items prohibited from all FIU Football Stadium events include: any outside food/beverages, illegal drugs, playing balls, umbrellas, pets (except for certified service dogs for disabled patrons), bottles, cans, flasks, thermoses, ice bags, ice chests, coolers, picnic baskets, boom boxes, firearms, incendiary devices (fireworks, smoke bombs, etc.), artificial noisemakers, musical instruments, flag poles, confetti, weapons, hover boards, laser pointers, drone-type aircraft or any item deemed hazardous by FIU Football Stadium management personnel.
Those with illegal drugs or incendiary devices are subject to ejection and/or arrest.
Authorities are allowed to inspect patrons, and their bags, upon entering FIU Football Stadium for the purpose of spectator safety.
• No backpacks, etc., will be allowed into FIU Football Stadium.
• All items (packages) are subject to search.
• No sitting in the aisles. No standing on the leachers/seats.
• Ushers will restrict entrance to the field and premium areas allowing only credentialed personnel access.
• FIU staff reserves the right to prohibit any additional items.
Re-Entry Policy: There is no re-entry into the stadium for all FIU Football Stadium ticketed events.
Request for Assistance: All requests for assistance and reports of disruptive behavior / stadium facility issues should be directed to the closest available Contemporary Services event staff employee.
Restrooms: Restrooms for men and women are conveniently located beneath all the stands on the main concourse. A family restroom is located across from Gate 3 on the south side of the main concourse. (Currently closed for 2022 season due to construction.
Security: Security for FIU Football Stadium and all Athletic Venues will be coordinated by FIU Athletics Stadium Event Management personnel in conjunction with the FIU Police Department. Contemporary Services Corporation (CSC) serves as event security for FIU Stadium and Athletics Venues events.
Smokeless Tobacco: The usage of smokeless tobacco is strictly prohibited.
Smoking Policy: Smoking is prohibited in FIU Football Stadium and includes e-cigarettes and vaping.
Stadium Entrance: All gates open 60 minutes prior to kickoff for the general public. Gate 1 for Recruits / Player Guests / High School Coaches will open 90 minutes prior to kickoff. Gates will open 2.5 hours prior to kickoff for credentialed media/staff. Gate 11 is the media gate for all FIU Home Football Games.
• Gate 1: FIU Player Guest, Recruit and FHSAA Coaches Pass Entrance
• Gate 2: General Fan Main Entrance –Closed 2022 season
• Gate 3: FIU Suites/VIP Entrance –Closed 2022 season
• Gate 4: General Fan Entrance / FIU Suites / VIP Entrance
• Gate 5: General Fan Entrance
• East Auxilary Gate
• Gate 6: FIU Student Entrance / Emergency Vehicle Access
• Gate 6A: FIU Student Entrance
• Gate 7: FIU Student Entrance / General Fan Entrance
• Gate 8: Community Partners Entrance / General Fan Entrance
• Gate 9: General Fan Entrance
• Gate 10: Visiting Team Player Guest Entrance / General Fan Entrance
• Gate 11: Athletics and Stadium Event Employee/ Media Entrance
Strollers: Strollers are permitted inside FIU Stadium. They must be checked upon entry and dropped off at the Guest Services tent near Gate 9 on the North Concourse and Gate 4 on the South Concourse or can be used on the Upper North, East, and West Concourse.
Suites/VIP Parking: Preferred parking for VIP/Suite Holders is located in the south pavement lot of the stadium, just north of Tamiami Park and across the south gates (1 through 4) of the stadium.
Tailgating: Tailgating will begin 6 hours prior to all Saturday FIU Football home games and at 3 p.m. on Thursday and Friday FIU Football home games. The official student tailgate area is located in the Tamiami Hall Promenade, just north of Tamiami Hall and east of the FIU Football Stadium. The student tailgating promenade will begin to be cleared
about 45 minutes prior to kickoff. New for 2022, the return of tailgating in the Cuban Memorial area of Tamiami Park. Entrance to Tamiami Park is through SW 112 Avenue and Coral Way and SW 117 Avenue and 21st Street.
Ticket Information: Assistance with any ticket issues can be obtained by contacting the FIU Athletics Ticket Office, located on the west side of FIU Football Stadium at the University Credit Union Box Office and by calling 305-348-4263. Office hours are from 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.
Uber / Lyft Pick-up Location: East of Tamiami Hall at the WPAC on SW 17 Street.
Weather Delays and lightning Policy: During a weather delay, fans are to leave their seats and either return to their vehicles or seek shelter under the stadium. In the event of an emergency, all FIU Stadium event staff and its staffing provider have been trained and instructed to assist guests in evacuating the premises. Always remain calm and follow the instructions from stadium staff and emergency personnel. Guests will be given instructions by the publicaddress/open-caption systems. Exit instructions will also be posted on the stadium video boards.
Wheelchair Assistance: FIU Stadium provides wheelchair escorts for guests with limited mobility from any FIU Stadium entrance to the guest’s seating location. Upon arriving at an entrance, please ask for assistance.
Will Call:
• General Public: University Credit Union Box Office (West Side)
• Media: Gate 11 (West Side)
• FIU Player Guest: Gate 1 (South Side)
• FHSAA Coaches Pass: Gate 1 (South Side)
• Recruits: Gate 1 (South Side)
• Visiting Team Player Guest: Gate 10 (North Side)
For the safety of participants and spectators alike, at no time before, during and after a game shall spectators be permitted to enter the playing field. Access will be limited to participating student-athletes, coaches, officials, support personnel and properly credentialed individuals. While we love the enthusiasm of our fans, serious injury can occur to fans, coaching staff and student-athletes.
For more information, contact FIU Stadium Managers Office at 305-348-4327.
For more than 50 years, FIU has been one of South Florida’s anchor institutions, working to solve some of the greatest challenges of our time. Designated a top-tier research institution, FIU emphasizes research as a major component of the university’s mission. Preeminent Programs such as the Center for Children and Families and the Extreme Events Institute actively enhance FIU’s ability to set new standards. FIU also supports artistic and cultural engagement through its three museums: Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum, The Wolfsonian-FIU and the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU. The university has collectively graduated more than 300,000 alumni, 75% of whom stay to live and work in Florida.
FIU PROGRAMS ACROSS THE ACADEMIC SPECTRUM ARE RANKED IN THE TOP 50 AMONG PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES, ACCORDING TO U.S.NEWS & WORLD REPORT RANKINGS.
FIU’s dynamic student body reflects the vibrant diversity of South Florida:
3% Asian or Pacific Islander
TOP
#1 IN AWARDING BACHELOR’S DEGREES TO MINORITIES
11% White NonHispanic
11% Other Minority Groups
12% Black
63% Hispanic
grow FIU Athletics. We have an outstanding academic institution, a large, energetic student body, tremendous staff, coaches and student-athletes, passionate alumni and we’re located in a phenomenal city. I can’t wait to get started.”
Prior to arriving at UCF, Carr served as senior associate athletic director for external affairs at Auburn University. He also held positions at the University of Southern Mississippi and the FedEx Orange Bowl.
Carr was a member of the UCF Athletics staff since 2016. Carr joined the Knights as executive associate athletics director/CMO in February of 2016 and was promoted to deputy athletics director for brand activation in April 2018. In January 2021, Carr was named interim director of athletics.
Scott Carr was named Florida International University’s athletic director on Dec. 1, 2021.
Carr boasts 25-years of experience in intercollegiate athletics and arrived at FIU following a stint at the University of Central Florida, where he served as deputy and interim athletic director.
“My family and I couldn’t be more excited to join the FIU family and serve as your next Director of Athletics,” Carr said. “I see the tremendous opportunities to
As deputy athletics director, he had oversight of ticket sales and operations, corporate sales and partnerships, the annual fund, brand advancement, strategic communications and gameday experience.
Carr was part of UCF’s bowl advance planning team, had sport oversight of the women’s basketball program, served as the sport administrator for the men’s basketball program for the 2020-21 season and previously was sport administrator for the men’s soccer, cross country and track and field programs.
He also supervised the spirit programs, including the 2020 national champion cheerleading team.
Carr oversaw the transfer of management of the UCF Convocation Corporation from the University administration to UCF Athletics. The wholly owned corporation is a $20M annual operations entity that consists of student housing, retail space and Addition Financial Arena. He also served on the executive committee as chair-elect for the Greater Orlando Sports Commission.
Carr assisted directly with the hiring of head football coach Josh Heupel in December 2017. Heupel had a 28-8 record with the Knights in his three years, including an American Athletic Conference Championship and appearance in a New Year’s Six bowl in 2018 (PlayStation Fiesta Bowl). Under Heupel’s leadership, the Knights were consistently ranked in the top-25 and made three consecutive bowl appearances.
Carr also assisted in the hiring of head women’s basketball coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson in March 2016. In her first five seasons at UCF, Abrahamson-Henderson led the program to four 20-win seasons and a 16-5 mark during the shortened 2020-21 campaign. She guided the Knights to their best finish in the American Athletic Conference in all four seasons, including their first-ever appearance in The American Championship title game in 2018-19. UCF also made four postseason appearances under Abrahamson-Henderson, including the program’s first at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament in 2018-19 and a return in the next NCAA Tournament, following the 2020-21 regular season.
During Carr’s tenure in Orlando, UCF increased the amount of premium seating in football, basketball and baseball. The overall ticket and seatbased donation growth during this time also increased significantly. In 2018, UCF sold out season tickets in the football stadium for the first time in program history and repeated the feat in 2019.
Carr was a key factor in UCF becoming a national brand since and consistently finished in the top-25 in engagement on all major social media platforms. UCF was routinely recognized nationally for its creative video content and bold cutting-edge style of storytelling.
Prior to the 2020 winter season, UCF expanded its video capabilities by increasing the number of video control rooms to produce live events for ESPN per the renegotiated television contract between the AAC and ESPN.
Prior to his tenure at UCF, Carr served as senior associate athletic director for external affairs at Auburn University.
At Auburn, Carr was responsible for the external affairs of the athletics department. He had direct oversight of the marketing and promotions department, including ticket sales, ticket office, event management and community relations. He was responsible for the game-day experience at all sporting events and dealt with all athletics department contracts including but not limited to ISP, Under Armour, and Sodexho (concessions).
For several years, Carr was responsible for the premium seating and the annual donations associated
with tickets and parking. Carr also oversaw the implementation of the SEC Network into Auburn’s video department, War Eagle Productions. He joined the Auburn staff in August 2009.
Prior to Auburn, Carr served in various capacities at Southern Mississippi for eight years (2001-2009). The final position he held in Hattiesburg was deputy director of athletics, external affairs (2006-2009), where he served as the number two executive of the department.
Prior to Southern Miss, Carr worked in multiple, ascending roles with the FedEx Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida (1997-2001).
Carr is a native of Gainesville, Florida, and earned his undergraduate degree
in business management from the University of Florida in 1995. He earned his master’s degree in sports management from Florida in 1997.
Carr is married to the former Pam Snowe. The couple has two daughters, Ashton and Katie, and one granddaughter, Kylie.
Florida International University is making great strides, with many top-50 rankings among U.S. public research universities. With your support, we will take FIU’s research excellence and student success to the Next Horizon.
Invest in success at NextHorizon.FIU.edu
to the Conference USA All-Freshman squad, highlighted by defensive back Demetrius Hill, who became the first FIU player since 2018 to be named to the FWAA Freshman All-America Team.
Always with an eye on the future, MacIntyre has elevated the recruiting aspect of the program as the Panthers were recognized as having the top recruiting class among all returning Conference USA programs during the 2023 early cycle.
A Miami native, MacIntyre was born in the Magic City and resided in the area while his father was an assistant coach for the University of Miami.
MikeMacIntyre is entering his second season with the Panthers after being named head coach of the FIU football program on Dec. 9, 2021.
MacIntyre wasted no time upon arrival in changing the culture of the FIU program as the 2022 Panthers posted a 400 percent increase in victories from the previous season and recorded the most wins since 2019.
A total of eight Panthers earned AllConference USA status in 2022 - with another four honored with mention
MacIntyre is a 33-year veteran of collegiate coaching and has previously served as the head coach at the University of Colorado (2013-18) and San Jose State University (201012) – where he led both programs to nationally recognized turnarounds in wins during his tenure. MacIntyre also has experience coaching in the NFL under legendary coach, Bill Parcells.
He was the consensus national coach of the year in 2016 after guiding Colorado to a 10-4 finish and the Pac12 South Division Title. While with San Jose State, MacIntyre led the Spartans to the program’s first ranking in the final BCS standings (No. 24) following a 10-2 mark in 2012.
MacIntyre arrived at FIU after holding the position of defensive coordinator at Memphis for two seasons (2020-21).
The 2021 season saw MacIntyre’s defense lead the American Athletic Conference in defensive touchdowns and ranked 23rd nationally.
During the 2020 campaign under MacIntyre, the Tigers ranked 13th in the nation in turnovers gained (20), 17th in the country in interceptions (12) and 19th in red zone defense (.744).
Under his guidance, Memphis defensive lineman O’Bryan Goodson was named First-Team All-American Athletic Conference and defensive back Quindell Johnson earned second-team all-conference accolades. Defensive lineman Morris Joseph earned honorable-mention all-league.
MacIntyre spent the 2019 season as Ole Miss’ defensive coordinator and did a tremendous job in turning around the defense in his lone campaign in Oxford, Miss. It was MacIntyre’s second stint at Ole Miss, as he also coached there from 1999-02.
Ole Miss made impressive jumps in several defensive statistical categories. The Rebels held opponents to nearly 10 fewer points in 2019 than in 2018 and also held foes to nearly 100 fewer rushing yards per game over those same two seasons.
Ole Miss’ total defense under MacIntyre jumped nearly 40 spots in the NCAA rankings. The Rebels limited opponents to just under 70 fewer total yards per game.
MacIntyre has made turnarounds a trademark of his career, which was evident in his six seasons as the head coach at Colorado. In 2013, he took over a Colorado team that was coming off a 1-11 season. Four years later he
directed the Buffs to a 10-4 mark and their first appearance in the Pac-12 Championship Game.
In 2016, Colorado was tied with five other programs for the most improved overall nationally and the most improved all-time in Pac-12 league games. The Buffaloes became just the ninth team among Power-5 schools since 1972 to win 10 or more games after finishing the previous season with four or fewer wins.
For his efforts in 2016, MacIntyre earned consensus National Coach of the Year honors after leading the Buffaloes to their first 10-win season in 15 years.
In 2015, the Buffs defense improved by as many as 50 spots nationally in many major defensive areas. The biggest jump came in points allowed per game, slicing off 11.5 from the previous year, the fifth-best improvement in all of FBS.
The turnaround at Colorado came just a few years after MacIntyre similarly resuscitated a San Jose State team from a 1-12 record in 2010 to one that finished 10-2 in 2012 and was nationally ranked. MacIntyre garnered Grant Teaff National Coach of the Year recognition that season. His San Jose State teams won 12 of his final 14 games there.
In recording their first 10-win season since 1987, the Spartans did it with a defense that ranked among the national leaders in numerous statistical categories. The opportunistic Spartans were the co-national leaders with 20 fumble recoveries and were tied for fourth in turnovers gained (33).
MacIntyre arrived at San Jose State after two years as the defensive coordinator at Duke, where he was reunited with David Cutcliffe, who was the Rebels’ coach during MacIntyre’s first stint in Oxford.
In his first season in Durham (2008), the Blue Devils allowed 67.4 fewer yards and 9.8 fewer points per game than the previous season. The AFCA named MacIntyre its 2009 FBS Assistant Coach of the Year as his defenses were among Duke’s best statistically over a 20-year span.
Prior to returning to college ball, MacIntyre spent five seasons in the National Football League with the New York Jets (2007) and Dallas Cowboys (2003-06), where he coached defensive backs.
Working for legendary coach Bill Parcells, the Cowboys returned to the NFL playoffs in 2003 and again in 2006 after missing out on postseason competition during the 2000 through 2002 seasons.
MacIntyre served as Ole Miss’ secondary coach during the 2001 and 2002 seasons after spending his first two years in Oxford as the wide receivers coach. The Rebels posted a 29-19 record in that time with bowl appearances in the 1999 and 2002 Independence Bowls and the 2000 Music City Bowl. The 2001 Rebels ranked fifth nationally in pass defense, allowing just 161.3 yards per game.
At Ole Miss, among his recruits were two high-profile student-athletes, quarterback Eli Manning and linebacker Patrick Willis. He has mentored many current and former NFL players, including recently retired former Dallas
and Cincinnati safety Roy Williams, a five-time Pro Bowl player.
He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Georgia, working two years (1990-91) in that capacity. He then coached one year as the defensive coordinator at Davidson (1992), four years at UT Martin (199396) and an assistant coach two seasons at Temple (1997-98).
A 1989 Georgia Tech graduate, he lettered twice (1987-88) at free safety and punt returner for legendary head coach Bobby Ross. Prior to becoming a Yellow Jacket, MacIntyre played two seasons (1984-85) at Vanderbilt for his father, George, the head coach of the Commodores from 1979-85.
MacIntyre earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Georgia Tech and his master’s in education with an emphasis on sports management from Georgia in 1991.
MacIntyre and his wife, Trisha, have three children: Jennifer, Jay and Jonston.
“Throughout this process, Coach MacIntyre rose to the top,” Carr said. “He has a passion for student-athletes and building genuine relationships with them. He’s a builder, with proven success taking two struggling programs and elevating them to national relevance. He is a two-time national coach of the year. He’s a brand builder who will promote FIU throughout the South Florida community and the state of Florida. We could not be more excited to bring his energy and passion to campus.”
FIU Athletic Director Scott Carr on Mike MacIntyre“It is exciting to have the opportunity to come back to Miami,” MacIntyre said. “Not only was I born here but the roots of my family’s love for football and mentoring young people started here with my Dad.
Alma Mater
1991, University of Georgia
1989, Georgia Tech University
Playing Experience
1987-1988, Georgia Tech University
Lettered twice at free safety and punt returner for legendary head coach Bobby Ross
1984-1985, Vanderbilt University
1979-1985, Played two seasons for his father, George, the head coach of the Commodores
Family
Wife - Trisha
Children – Jennifer (Blake – Son-In-Law), Jay and Jonston
Coaching Experience
Florida International University
2022-present Head Coach
University of Memphis
2020-2021 Defensive Coordinator
University of Mississippi
2019 Defensive Coordinator
2001-2002 Assistant Coach, Defensive Backs
1999-2000 Assistant Coach, Wide Receivers
University of Colorado
2013-2018 Head Coach
San Jose State University
2010-2012 Head Coach
Duke University
2008-2009 Defensive Coordinator
There is so much talent and passion for football in our area. I can’t wait to get started building a strong foundation for our program. I believe that together we will create something special to rally around, inspiring Panther Pride in everyone associated with FIU and our community.”
New York Jets
2007 Assistant Coach, Defensive Backs
Dallas Cowboys
2003-2006 Assistant Coach, Defensive Backs
Temple University
1997-1998 Assistant Coach, Defensive Backs
University of Tennessee at Martin
1993-1996 Defensive Coordinator
Davidson College
1992 Defensive Coordinator
University of Georgia
1990-1991 Graduate Assistant
Bowl Coaching Experience
2021 Hawaii Bow
2020 Montgomery Bowl
2016 Alamo Bowl
2012 Military Bowl
2002 Independence Bowl
2000 Music City Bowl
1999 Independence Bowl
1990 Independence Bowl
National Awards
2016 Consensus National Coach of the Year Awards
2012 Grant Teaff National Coach of the Year
2009 AFCA FBS Assistant Coach of the Year
“THANK YOU!! As we find ourselves looking at a new day for Florida International University and FIU Athletics, we are raising our expectations and would not be able to do it without your investment in our student-athletes. This is a “we” not “me initiative.”
We are determined to build Panther Pride and become a rallying point for students, alumni and fans from Miami-Dade and Broward counties, and beyond. We expect our programs to excel both on and off the competition surface. We are driven. We demand to be the best and insists that we win the right way: by focusing on the academic health, physical well-being, and character of our student-athletes.
FIU Athletics brings together the determination and talent of over 400 student-athletes on 17 NCAA Division I teams. Our program has a proud history of graduating our student-athletes and producing professional and Olympic athletes. Today’s Panthers are in a position of strength. By investing in our programs and facilities, we will become one of the most competitive and respected programs in both the region and the nation. Can our student-athletes count on YOU?
We need every member of the Panther Family to help transform FIU Athletics. In addition to your continued support, please invite others to join in OUR success. We can make an IMPACT and ensure our student-athletes leave FIU with a diploma in one hand and championship rings on the other.”
Thank You Panther Family! Paws Up!
Scott Carr FIU Athletics Director
FIU Director of Athletics Scott Carr recently introduced the Panther Club, the new primary fundraising arm for FIU Athletics, providing alumni, fans and the FIU community the opportunity to make a transformational impact through annual philanthropic giving.
For FIU Athletics to compete for conference and NCAA Championships, it is vital to provide the over 400 student-athletes with the very best services, resources, and facilities to assist in their training, practice, recovery and academic work.
The Panther Club is the primary fundraising arm of FIU Athletics, providing our alumni, fans, and community the opportunity to make a transformational impact through annual philanthropic giving. For our student-athletes to excel in competition, in the classroom and in the community, we need the support of the Panther Family.
exclusive Panther Club events
Exclusive Invite to Athletics VIP Experience for you and a guest
Pre-Game Sideline Access for Select Home Football Game
Football Sideline Access for Select Home Football Game
Exclusive Athletics Swag Bag
Football Away Game Experience for (2)**
*Based on availability. Football Season Parking Pass based on required minimum donation of $150. Quantity and location of parking/postseason tickets are determined by donor giving level.
** Away game experience will be based on availability. Note: Trips, receptions, and events are for the donor and guest(s) and are non-transferable; donor must accompany guest(s).
Goals of the Panther Club:
• Enhance the level of athletic and academic support provided to all 400+ student-athletes
• Increase the level of competition for all 17 athletic programs
• Improve the practice and training facilities and resources available to all student-athletes
• Attract and retain the best possible coaches, assistants, and administrators
• Improve and enhance current technology, equipment, and tools to allow our student-athletes to have the greatest opportunity for success
The Stakeholder Society recognizes Panther Club members who make a charitable multi-year gift commitment to FIU Athletics. Through these transformational commitments to five years of giving, Stakeholder Society members will receive exclusive benefits and engagement opportunities based on giving level.
Goals of Stakeholder Society:
• Provide services that will help support our student-athletes in the classroom, in training,and on the playing surface for multiple years
• Help shape the next generation of leaders in our community
• Share the vision of excellence for FIU Athletics
• Help our student-athletes to become an FIU community ambassador
Annual Stakeholder Society Event
Panther Club Sports Pass (free admission to all sports, excluding football and basketball)
Top Priority for parking and postseason play State of Athletics Private Event
• Check
• Checks payable to“FIU Athletics” and designate “Panther Club” on memo line.
• Credit Card
• All major credit cards are accepted online and by phone.
• Gifts of Securities
• Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc. are accepted as gifts. For instruction on how to transfer gifts of securities, please contact the Panther Club.
• Matching Gifts
• Check with your employer to determine if your donation to FIU Athletics is eligible for a matching gift.
• Planned Giving
• Gifts in the form of life insurance, charitable lead trusts,and/or bequests are common ways to state your intentions of leaving your legacy gift to FIU Athletics.
• Payment Plans
• Monthly payments are available for your annual contribution.
JOIN
On the field, court, or campus, your creativity is our inspiration; the adidas Creators Club is the membership program that unlocks the best of adidas. Join the community today, start earning points and get rewarded.
Become a member today, checkout adidas.com/CreatorsClub
C.J. Christian’s athletic career has been marked by triumph over adversity.
Fresh out of high school, it seemed Christian would play football at a university in South Dakota. But on his first day, he found out he had narrowly missed the academic requirement for NCAA eligibility. He returned to his hometown in Illinois and later played at a community college.
When it came time to transfer, Christian set his heart on FIU. He turned down an offer from another Division I program and began his journey as a Panther in 2022.
Christian made a strong showing as a defensive back, earning his spot as an opening day starter at FIU. In his first few games, he totaled 17 tackles, including a tackle for loss and an interception. In his fourth game, he suffered a season-ending injury, dislocating his shoulder.
After working hard to recover, the communication major came back onto the field this fall ready to go. In four games, he has totaled 21 tackles and was recently honored as a member of the ProFootballFocus’ (PFF) College Football
Team of the Week after his performance during FIU’s victory over University of North Texas on Sept. 9.
“The good thing about CJ is that he always wants to keep getting better,” says Head Football Coach Mike MacIntyre. “He has excellent ball skills, good eyes, can judge a football and make plays on it.”
What keeps Christian going? His faith in Christ. When he got injured last year, for example, he trusted God.
“I know that God’s got a plan for me,” he says. “I told myself, ‘I’m just going to keep working hard.’ I never imagined myself in Miami, playing football. This is what I’ve prayed for. It’s never supposed to be easy. You can never take it for granted.”
He adds, “I just want people to know that you should never stop chasing your dreams. It could be your worst day today, and the next day could be your best day.”
After all, he himself is proof that perseverance pays off, he says, and that God really does answer prayers.
If you’ve been a part of the CUSA family for years, we’re proud to have you here.
If you’re new to us, welcome. No matter when you got here, know this: You’re part of more than a college athletics conference.
Every school, every town, every alumni and fan is an essential part of who CUSA is today, and equally important in taking us to the next level. With unstoppable energy, there are no limits on us.
So hop on, because we’re heading up.
Jack Daly 0 | DL
Avery Huff 2 | LB
Shomari Lawrence 0 | RB
JoJo Evans 3 | DB
Keyone Jenkins 1 | QB
Grayson James 3 | QB
Latarie Kinsler 1 | DL
CJ Christian 4 | DB
Adrian Cole 6 | DB
Kejon Owens 5 | RB
Steven Shannon 5 | DL
Haden Carlson 4 | QB
Artez Hooker 9 | WR
Antonio Patterson 6 | RB
Lexington Joseph 8 | RB
Jeramy Passmore 8 | DL
Mike Jackson 7 | WR
Jamal Potts 7 | DB
Will Prendergast 9 | DL
Donovan Manuel 10 | LB
Kris Mitchell 10 | WR
Dean Patterson 11 | WR
Ladarian Paulk 11 | DB
Hezekiah Masses 12 | DB Chayden Peery 12 | QB
DJ Aiken 13 | DL
Eric Rivers 13 | WR
Jalen Bracey 14 | WR
Chance Coleman 34 | LB
Lucas Matias 35 | K
Daton Montiel 25 | K/P
Jeremiah McClendon 28 | DB
Mister Clark 27 | DB
Dylan Redmon 25 | WR
Victor Evans III 26 | DB
Percy Courtney Jr. 19 | LB
Shaborne Demps 21 | RB
Ross Fournet 19 | WR
J.T Anderson 20 | DB
Ja’Coby Matthews 16 | WR
Khaya Wright 18 | LB
Claude Larkins 17 | DL
Zachary Waters 17 | QB
Jay Barry Jr. 18 | WR
T.J. Snowden 15 | RB
Jamari Holliman 21 | DB
Joshua Pena 24 | WR
Jordan Clemons 23 | RB
Brian Blades 22 | DB
Landon Hale 23 | DB
Phillip Houston 54 | OL
Wyatt Lawson 55 | OL
Donovan Brod 43 | LB
Keegan Davis 44 | LB
Atavious Weaver 46 | LB
Daniel Michel 53 | OL
Richard Nwaukoni 48 | LB
Kristoff Pollas 49 | OL
Miles Jones 39 | DB
Reggie Peterson 42 | LB
Braiden Staten 87 | TE
Josiah Miamen 88 | TE
Jackson Lee 86 | LS
Jackson McDonald 85 | TE/LS
Travis Burke 77 | OL
Christian Pederson 80 | TE
Luby Maurice Jr. 81 | WR
Jett Law 82 | WR
Kyle McNeal 83 | WR
Austin Fitts 84 | TE
Rocky Beers 89 | TE
Nick Watson 92 | DL
Garret Augustine 93 | DL
Tyler Patterson 91 | P
Travonte O’Neal 90 | DL
Marquez Tatum 94 | DL
Quaylen Hill 95 | DL
Jordan Doelling 96 | P
Alex Nobles 97 | LB
Antoine Cobb 98 | DL
Rowdy Beers 99 | TE
Prior to his time at FIU, Dr. Jessell served as the senior vice president for financial affairs at Florida Atlantic University. During his 26-year career at FAU, Dr. Jessell served in several key leadership positions, including interim university provost, interim vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the FAU Foundation, associate university provost and associate dean in the College of Business Administration. Dr. Jessell started his employment at FAU in 1983 as an assistant professor in the Department of Finance and Real Estate.
Dr. Kenneth A. Jessell is the president of Florida International University. He was unanimously approved by the FIU Board of Trustees as presidentdesignate on Oct. 17, 2022, and confirmed by the Florida Board of Governors on Nov. 9, 2022, as the sixth president of FIU.
Prior to his appointment as interim president in January of 2022, Dr. Jessell served as Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer at FIU from 2009-2022. At this position, he was responsible for the management and administration of financial, facility and business service operations of the university. Dr. Jessell is also a professor of finance in the College of Business Administration at FIU.
Dr. Jessell’s teaching and research interests are in the areas of financial management and real estate finance and appraisal. He has published 16 articles and abstracts in academic journals including The Financial Review, Journal of Cash Management, The Appraisal Review, Housing Finance Review, Applied Economics and Journal of Financial Education. He has also presented several research papers in the areas of finance and real estate at professional conferences and organizations including the Oxford Roundtable in Oxford, England.
Dr. Jessell received his baccalaureate degree in political science from Florida State University. He also holds an MBA and a Ph.D. in finance from FSU.
The Panthers Athletic Training Department would like to express gratitude to the following medical specialists for all of their time and support:
Student Health Services
College Optical
Doctors Hospital Nelson Lazo and Staff
Miami Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (MOSMI)
Drs. Marco Leyte-Vidal and Michael Robinson
Dr. Esther Levin and Staff
A dedicated group of both certified athletic trainers and athletic training students work daily to prevent injury and provide care, treatment and rehabilitation of student-athletes’ sport-related injuries.
Gabriel Casanova Director, Athletic Training
Dustin West Associate Athletic Trainer
Jeff Birchell Assistant Athletic Trainer
Molly Osborn Assistant Athletic Trainer
Brooke BowerAssistant Athletic Trainer
Najeeb Emmanuel Assistant Athletic Trainer
Javier Garcia Doctoral Student of Athletic Trainer
Areti Filippidis
Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer
Leslie MacManus Sports Dietitian
Joyce Castro Insurance Coordinator
Dr. Keith S. Hechtman Orthopaedics Dr. George Munoz M.D. Internist Sports Medicine Dr. Ronaldo Calonje M.D. Internist Sports Medicine Dr. Esther Levin Cardiologist Dr. Julio Pardave Jr. Chiropractor Dr. Marco Leyte-Vidal Dentist Dr. Michael Robinson Dentist Dr. Luis Rodriguez, M.D. Internist, Sports Medicine
Florida International University (FIU), as a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and Conference USA, is responsible for ensuring that its various constituencies (i.e., University staff and faculty, student-athletes, alumni and friends) abide by NCAA and Conference USA rules and regulations. Under these rules, alumni and friends can be categorized as “representatives of Florida International University’s athletic interests” (otherwise known as “Boosters’).
This brief summary of NCAA rules is intended to give basic guidelines for all individuals associated with FIU. Please call the Athletics Compliance Office if you have specific questions or need clarification.
We appreciate your interest and support but remind you that inappropriate contact or an inadvertent action can jeopardize the eligibility of our student-athletes and prospects and compliance of the University with NCAA regulations.
If you have any questions about contact with a prospective or enrolled studentathlete, please direct these questions to: The Athletics Compliance Office Modesto A. Maidique Campus Ocean Bank Convocation Center, Room 154 305-348-2843
Am I a “Representative of FIU’s Athletic Interests/Booster?”
YES, if you:
• Are a graduate of FIU;
• Are or ever have been a member of the Golden Panther Club/Panther Athletic Club;
• Have ever made a donation to the Florida International University athletic programs;
• Have ever helped to arrange or have provided summer employment for enrolled student-athletes;
• Have ever been involved in any way with the FIU athletic program; or
• Have ever been an FIU student-athlete.
The NCAA stipulates that once you have become a “Representative of FIU’s Athletic Interest/Boosters” you retain that identity forever, even if you no longer meet one of the criteria listed.
A prospective student-athlete is anyone who:
• Has started classes for the ninth grade (seventh grade for men’s basketball and women’s softball);
• Is enrolled in a two-year college;
• Has officially withdrawn from a four-year college; or
• Has not started ninth grade but has received financial assistance or other benefits from the institution.
Only coaches and authorized athletics department staff members are permitted to be involved in the recruiting process. Representatives of FIU’s athletics interests
are prohibited from making in-person, on- or off-campus contacts or written or telephone communications with a prospective student athlete or the prospective student-athlete’s relatives or legal guardians. In addition, please be careful of social media posts that may give the appearance of recruiting.
Representatives of FIU’s Athletics Interests/Boosters MAY NOT:
• Be involved in the recruitment of prospective student-athletes, which includes contacting a prospective student-athlete or their parents, legal guardian(s) or relatives by letter, telephone or in-person (on or off campus) for the purpose of soliciting their participation in the athletics program;
• Provide extra benefits (i.e., discounts, gifts, transportation) to prospective student-athletes, enrolled studentathletes or their parents, legal guardian(s), relatives or friends;
• Provide any financial assistance to prospective student-athletes, enrolled student-athletes or their parents, legal guardian(s), relatives or friends; or
• Use a student-athlete’s name, picture or appearance to promote sales or advertise the use of a commercial product or service.
Representatives of FIU’s Athletics Interest MAY:
• Attend a prospective student-athlete’s contest, avoiding all contact with the prospect and/or his/her relatives;
• Send newspaper clippings, e-mails, and other information about prospective student-athletes to coaches;
• Continue established family relationships with friends and neighbors that have prospective student-athlete aged children (please contact the Athletics Compliance Office if you have questions determining this);
• Accept telephone calls from prospective student-athletes and their family members as long as you do not discuss FIU or its athletics programs (must refer them to the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics);
• Provide summer employment to prospective student-athletes who have signed a National Letter of Intent after contacting the Athletics Compliance Office and receiving approval from the Head Coach;
• Employ at any time an enrolled studentathlete after contacting the Athletics Compliance Office and receiving approval from the Head Coach and the Athletics Compliance Office.
An extra benefit is any arrangement by an institutional staff member or a representative of the institution’s athletics interests to provide a student-athlete and/or his/her family with a benefit not specifically authorized by NCAA regulations.
Extra benefits that are not authorized by the NCAA would include, but are not limited to:
• Cash or loans of any amount;
• Co-signing or authorizing a loan;
• Gifts or free services (e.g., airline tickets, restaurant meals, use of an automobile, etc.);
• Rent-free or reduced-cost housing; or
• Employment of a student-athlete at a rate higher than the wages paid for similar work, or payment to a student-athlete for work not performed.
Compliance with NCAA regulations is of the highest priority for our athletic program and institution. We need your assistance in complying with NCAA rules. If you are faced with a situation and unsure, as to how to respond, contact The Athletics Compliance Office at 305-348-2843.
Marks 13-20 must be used in conjunction with university name or offical FIU logo (with letters included)
When the height of the FIU letters is 0.25 of an or below, please remove the stroke (as shown)