Utica, N.Y. — SUNY Poly Athletic Director John Czarnecki is pleased to announce the hiring of Patrick Hanlon as the new Athletic Performance Coach and Fitness Center Coordinator. Hanlon brings a deep blend of academic expertise, hands-on coaching experience, and elite athletic performance knowledge to the role.

"We are thrilled to welcome Patrick to our athletic department," said John Czarnecki. "His background working with championship programs, his energy and professionalism, and his clear passion for athlete development make him the ideal fit for this position."

Hanlon earned his Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science from Merrimack College in May. His graduate studies focused on strength and conditioning, advanced exercise physiology, sports nutrition, psychology, and organizational leadership. He previously earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Adrian College, where he was a standout on the men's varsity soccer team.

Most recently, Hanlon served as a Strength and Conditioning Fellow at Harvard University, where he led the performance programming for the men's rugby team and contributed to the training of several nationally ranked and championship-winning programs. His role involved programming strength and conditioning sessions, coaching Olympic and strength lifts, leading speed and agility training, and implementing advanced performance technology such as Catapult, Hawkin Dynamics, NordBord, and Tendo. He also managed nutrition stations and guided athletes on hydration, recovery, and performance routines.

A former athlete himself, Hanlon competed at the collegiate and professional levels, including with AFC Ann Arbor (USL2) and Michigan Futsal Academy. His experience as both a player and coach gives him unique insight into the needs and expectations of high-performing student-athletes.

He also previously served as an Assistant Women's Soccer Coach and Strength and Conditioning Intern at Adrian College, where he led team lifts, developed training sessions, and supported varsity athletic teams across multiple sports.

"I'm incredibly excited to relaunch the strength and conditioning program at SUNY Poly," said Hanlon. "I'm committed to bringing enthusiastic, structured, and purposeful training to our varsity teams, while creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere in the fitness center."

In his new role, Hanlon will report to Associate Athletic Director Kelly Colbert and will oversee strength and conditioning programs for all varsity sports. He will also manage fitness center operations and collaborate closely with coaches, athletic trainers, and student-athletes to enhance performance, health, and recovery."