(Story Courtesy of McMurry University Sports Information Department)
ABILENE, Texas -- McMurry University has chosen Larry Dockery as the new athletic director for the McMurry War Hawks following a nationwide search conducted by the University. Dockery, who has been in the interim position since June 2023, has proven to be highly effective in ensuring the efficient and ethical operation of the department.
"Larry has played a crucial part in furthering the reputation and success of McMurry's athletic program as interim athletic director," stated Dr. Harper. "He has demonstrated his skills as a dedicated advocate for the overall well-being and development of scholar-athletes. I have full confidence that he will contribute significantly to further advancing our University's legacy of excellence in athletics, fostering pride and passion among our students, graduates, and fans."
Before assuming the interim role, Dockery served as the Director of Athletics Operations. In his new position as athletic director, he will continue to uphold standards of operational excellence and oversee the athletics programs' transition to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) in fall 2024. Dockery has been part of the McMurry community since 2014 when he joined the football coaching staff as the wide receiver coach. Over the course of eight years, he progressed to the role of Director of Athletic Operations in 2023 and was subsequently promoted to Senior Associate Athletic Director, responsible for overseeing game day operations for 18 NCAA men's and women's sports. Additionally, Dockery actively contributes to McMurry's Diversity Council.
"I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Harper for granting me this exciting opportunity," Dockery stated. "McMurry stands out as an exceptional institution committed to student success, a commitment that is further exemplified through our athletics department. Our coaches are both competitive and devoted to ensuring our students thrive both on and off the field. I am eager to continue supporting and fostering excellence to the campus communities I am privileged to serve."
"Larry has displayed a genuine sense of passion that will prove to be an asset to our athletics department," emphasized Dr. Harper. "His commitment to fostering a sense of belonging, along with a focus on community engagement, aligns seamlessly with our University's values and positions him effectively for success in this role."
Before McMurry, Dockery also served as special teams coach for the Abilene Ruff Riders and Abilene Bombers of the Indoor Football League. Dockery earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Science in Sports Administration from Southern Nazarene University in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Dockery and his wife, Courtney, are parents to Jayden, Larry Jr., J'Lee and TY
