Mike Morris returns for his fourth year as head equipment manager, after taking over the duties just three weeks prior to the opening of preseason training camp in 2006.

In his current position, Morris’ day-to-day operational duties include overseeing the purchasing, fitting, maintenance and distribution of all football practice and game-day equipment and apparel for players and the coaching staff.

Morris brought over 26 years of athletic-related experience to Liberty University at various levels of services when he joined the Flames football staff, including experiences at the major and minor league baseball as well as the college level.

Prior to joining the Flames’ football support staff, Morris served four years (2002-05) as the minor league equipment manager/administrator in the Atlanta Braves organization. He was responsible for managing equipment and clubhouse operations for Atlanta’s six team minor league system, including spring training, extended spring training, the Gulf Coast League and the Florida Instructional League. From 1999 to 2002, Morris was a manager for logistics/stadium engineering for Turner Properties.

From 1993-99, he served on the athletic staff at Georgia Tech, including stints as athletic building manager, interim facilities coordinator and Alexander Memorial Coliseum manager, while finishing out his days with the Yellow Jackets as assistant director for athletic facilities. During his first year at Georgia Tech, Morris also served as guest relations manager/stadium operations with the Atlanta Braves.

From 1980-83, he served as gymnasium/natatorium manager at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill. Morris got his start in the athletic world in 1969 when he was named equipment manager for the Chicago White Sox where he served until 1980.

Besides bringing a wealth of athletic experience to Liberty, Morris has a distinguished military background, including three years of service in the U.S. Army (1967-69), where he was the squad leader for the 25th Infantry Division for South Vietnam and was honorably discharged as Sergeant E5. A decorated soldier, Morris was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medals, Army Achievement Medals and the Combat Unit and Campaign Ribbons during his years of service.

From 1983-92, Morris served as Chaplain Recruitment and Reserve Affairs NCO for the Forces Command Staff Champlain, U.S. Army.

The native of Lynchburg, Va., attended Illinois Benedictine College and Wheaton College, while his son, Peyton, is a 1995 graduate of Liberty.



The Morris File

Year at Liberty: Fourth

Hometown: Lynchburg, Va.

Wife: Debbie

Children: Peyton, Jimi and John