Wayne State University Athletics

September 1, 2026

From the Desk of AD Wallace:

A new year of Warrior Athletics is here, and there is so much to be excited about. Entering my fourth year as Director of Athletics, I’m incredibly excited about where we’re headed, but I’m most grateful for the people who make it possible. I get a front-row seat every day to the care our coaches and staff show our student-athletes and each other, reminding me why this work matters and why college athletics is so special.

Our work continues to be guided by four standards: Academic Excellence, Competitive Excellence, Community Engagement and Character Development. Together, they keep us focused on providing a transformational experience for every student-athlete who chooses Wayne State while building a nationally respected athletics program that reflects the excellence of our university and the energy and grit of Detroit.

There is a lot to look forward to this year. This October, we will celebrate our historic 50th Hall of Fame induction class, officially recognize the David L. Holmes Wayne State University Athletics Hall of Fame and unveil our new Legacy Atrium in the Matthaei, a space that honors our history while looking toward the future of Wayne State Athletics.

That same momentum can be seen across our athletic campus, from our new softball field and soccer complex to renovations of the Matthaei Natatorium and football locker room, along with new signage and branding as part of a three-year refresh plan. Together, these investments are creating an environment our student-athletes and staff are proud to call home.

Just as importantly, we continue to invest in our people. We have officially outgrown our student support services area, and our Mental Health and Wellness Suite will move into a larger space this year to better support our student-athletes. Our commitment to the whole student-athlete continues to show in the classroom, with our Warriors finishing the year with a 3.49 cumulative GPA.

Let me be clear, wins and championships do matter. We absolutely want to win. But our responsibility extends beyond competition. College athletics gives us an opportunity to develop leaders, teach resilience and prepare young people for what comes next. 

There will be plenty to cheer for this fall. Our reigning GLIAC Champion volleyball team is back, Wayne State Women’s Soccer makes history with its inaugural season, Warrior Football begins a new era under Head Coach Terrence Isaac, Sr., and Cross Country will welcome competitors to Detroit for the Warrior Challenge.

Come experience it with us! Bring your family and friends, wear your green and gold, and be part of the energy around Warrior Athletics. We are proud to represent Wayne State University and even prouder to call Detroit home. To our alumni, donors, fans, corporate partners and friends: thank you. The landscape of college athletics is changing rapidly, and your support makes a difference for our student-athletes. There is a lot to look forward to, and we’re just getting started.

I’m excited to see you this fall! 

Go Warriors. 

Erika Wallace 
Director of Athletics