In the world of small college athletics, the journey to leadership is often filled with twists and turns, perseverance, and a deep commitment to student-athletes. Recently, Jim Abbott, founder of the Business of Small College Athletics, had the opportunity to sit down with Miles Gallagher, Senior Business Development Officer for Teamworks and former Athletic Director at Millersville University, to discuss his career path and the lessons he learned along the way.
A Journey from Student-Athlete to Athletic Director
Gallagher’s path in athletics began as a student-athlete. He started his collegiate career at the University of Pittsburgh before transferring to Millersville University, where he thrived both academically and athletically. Upon graduating, he initially planned to attend law school but took an unexpected opportunity as a graduate assistant, working in both coaching and athletic administration. That decision set him on the path to a long and successful career in athletics.
Like many in the field, Gallagher’s first full-time role in athletics was not guaranteed. He faced challenges breaking into the industry and, for a time, worked in construction to make ends meet. But a pivotal moment came when Millersville’s associate athletic director departed, and the administration entrusted Gallagher to oversee compliance. With determination and hard work, he eventually found himself as the interim Athletic Director at just 28 years old, a position he later secured permanently.
Lessons in Leadership
Reflecting on his time as an AD, Gallagher identified three key lessons in leadership:
- Authenticity and Relationship Building – Gallagher emphasized the importance of being genuine in leadership and investing in relationships. He focused on listening, showing empathy, and demonstrating unwavering support for his staff.
- Clarity in Communication – He quickly learned that assumptions could lead to misunderstandings. Over-communication, he noted, is essential in a large organization.
- Organizational Values Matter – Establishing clear mission and values provided a foundation for decision-making. When challenges arose, these core values guided him and his team in the right direction.
Proud Accomplishments at Millersville
When asked about his proudest achievements, Gallagher didn’t hesitate—he was most proud of the people he worked with. Recruiting the right staff, fostering a culture of excellence, and securing financial resources for student-athletes were among his top priorities. Under his leadership, Millersville moved from the bottom quarter of its league to the top, strengthening its athletic programs and creating a lasting impact.
A New Chapter with Teamworks
At the start of 2024, Gallagher made the difficult decision to leave Millersville and join Teamworks. His transition was driven by personal and professional growth, as well as a desire to spend more time with his young family. Having admired Teamworks from afar, he was intrigued when they acquired ARMS, a compliance and recruiting software he had used as an AD. Joining the company provided him with a new opportunity to help athletic departments nationwide improve efficiency through technology.
Navigating the Changing Landscape of College Athletics
As Gallagher discussed his time at the NCAA convention, he noted that many administrators are struggling with increased demands, shifting student demographics, and limited resources. He believes technology plays a crucial role in improving efficiency and allowing athletic departments to maximize their existing staff and budgets.
With Teamworks, Gallagher and his team are helping non-Division I schools streamline operations, enhance student-athlete experiences, and embrace digital solutions. By providing comprehensive software to manage compliance, recruiting, scheduling, and communication, Teamworks is revolutionizing the way small college athletics operate.
Looking Ahead
As Teamworks expands its reach into NAIA, Division II, Division III, and junior college programs, Gallagher’s focus remains on awareness and education. Many institutions still perceive technology as a luxury for Division I schools, but Gallagher aims to shift that mindset. His goal is to demonstrate how digital solutions can enhance efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and ultimately support student-athletes at all levels.
Final Thoughts
Gallagher’s journey from a walk-on student-athlete to an influential figure in collegiate athletics is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and a passion for the student-athlete experience. His insights on leadership, technology, and the evolving landscape of college sports offer valuable takeaways for aspiring administrators and industry veterans alike.
As small college athletics continue to evolve, leaders like Gallagher and companies like Teamworks are paving the way for a more efficient, athlete-centered future. One thing remains clear: success in athletics, as in life, is built on relationships, communication, and a commitment to shared values.