The University of Pikeville has appointed a familiar name as its new athletics director.
Corey Fipps, who was hired as the head football coach at UPIKE in 2021, was recently named the Director of Athletics.
Fipps’ Background
Fipps came to UPIKE after four seasons at Kentucky Christian University (KCU), where he served as both the head football coach and Vice President of Enrollment Management and Athletics.
Fipps obtained both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and kinesiology from Harding University, where he played offense tackle.
Fipps has served as the offensive coordinator at NCAA Division II Missouri Southern State University, NAIA Montana Tech, Sacramento City College and Faulkner University.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the University of Pikeville Athletic Department,” said Fipps. “My family and I have come to love UPIKE and the vital role it plays in the mountains of Central Appalachia. We strive to shape young people who will make a difference beyond the arena of competition for generations to come.”
Fipps’ New Role
As the athletics director, Coach Fipps oversees all aspects of UPIKE’s athletics programs.
In addition to his duties as athletic director, Coach Fipps remains UPIKE’s head football coach.
Coach Fipps’ led the NAIA in passing yards during the 2022 season and led the Bears to a 6-4 (5-3 MSC) record in 2022, their best season since the 2016 campaign.
Fipps also led UPIKE to the program’s 100th all-time win after a 28-24 comeback win at Thomas More.
The Bears followed that up with a 7-3 record in 2023 that saw them go 5-1 in their first season competing in the Appalachian Athletics Conference.
For more information, visit upikebears.com.
