KELOWNA, B.C. – The UBCO Department of Athletics and Recreation is excited to announce the hiring of Spencer Pommells as the Heat's new Director, Varsity Athletics.
 
Pommells joins UBCO from the University of Lethbridge where he has worked in a variety of capacities for the past 10 years, most recently serving as their Director of Athletics since April 2024.
 
"Spencer's track record in Canada West speaks for itself," said Dale Mullings, UBC Okanagan Associate Vice-President, Students. "He has demonstrated exceptional varsity success, built strong community partnerships, and elevated the student-athlete experience in a highly competitive university sports environment. This experience provides the foundation we need as we develop a high-performance program that is deeply connected to the Okanagan community and the opportunities this region offers."
 
"I'm incredibly excited for the opportunity to join UBC Okanagan and the Heat," said Pommells on his appointment. "From the beginning of this process, I was struck by the people, the commitment to student-athletes, and the excitement surrounding the future of Heat Athletics and Recreation. There's a real sense of momentum, and I'm looking forward to working alongside our student-athletes and staff as we build something special together in the Okanagan."
 
"I'd also like to thank Dale, the hiring committee, and the entire Athletics and Recreation department for their confidence in me and their support throughout this process," continued Pommells. "I cannot wait to get to Kelowna and get started." 
 
Pommells brings 15 years of experience in university athletics to UBC Okanagan.
 
He began his career with the University of Lethbridge in 2016 and was appointed Manager of Athletics in 2018 before moving into the Director of Athletics role in 2024. During his tenure, he led significant growth across varsity athletics, including substantial increases in operating revenue and enhanced support for student-athletes.
 
Under his leadership, Pronghorn Athletics experienced one of the most successful competitive periods in its history, while advancing sport-specific initiatives through expanded scholarship opportunities, strengthened program resources, and strategic investments that enhanced training and competition experiences for student-athletes across all varsity programs.
 
"The University of Lethbridge has played a significant role in my journey over the past decade, and I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn and grow within such a supportive environment," said Pommells on his time with the Pronghorns. "I want to thank the all of the coaches, student-athletes, department colleagues, and University staff I've had the privilege to work with along the way. While I am excited for what lies ahead, I will always be grateful for my time in Lethbridge and the people who made it so meaningful."
 
Prior to joining Lethbridge, he served as the Recreation Supervisor at the University of Windsor, his alma mater, for five years.
 
Pommells also brings the perspective of the student-athlete to the role as he is a former U SPORTS Men's Hockey Player of the Year and a three-time Academic All-Canadian with the Windsor Lancers.
 
"Spencer's hire reflects UBCO's commitment to building Athletics and Recreation in a way that is both ambitious and positioned for sustained success," stated Mullings. "Spencer and Layne McDougall will lead the department under a co-leadership model that we believe aligns with our aspirations. Together, they bring complementary strengths, a shared commitment to our students and student-athletes, and a genuine connection to the broader community we are proud to serve. We are excited about what this next chapter holds."
 
Pommells will begin in his new position effective September 1, 2026.