Statement From Ferris State Athletics Director Perk Weisenburger

Big Rapids, Mich. - Below is a statement from Ferris State University Athletics Director Perk Weisenburger, who announced his retirement today (May 21). He has guided Bulldog Athletics to historic championship success over the past 11 years with more than 40 years of high-level achievements and service in intercollegiate athletics. Weisenburger's retirement is effective Oct. 1, 2021.

"The decision to step away from Bulldog Athletics was very difficult but it became increasing clear that now is the right time for a new vision that will create fresh energies and perspectives. After 11 very productive years at Ferris State and 40 years total as an intercollegiate athletic administrator, it is time to pass the baton, move on and for me to focus on other priorities and opportunities. My time at Ferris State has been some of the most rewarding as a professional and it has been extremely gratifying to work with such an outstanding group of coaches, staff and student-athletes. I will always be grateful for and extremely proud of who we are and what we stand for.  

I want to thank President Dave Eisler, former Vice-President Jerry Scoby and current Vice-President Jim Bachmeier for their trust, support and guidance as we charted multiple pathways for growth and success. Additionally, a heartfelt thanks to all the talented and dedicated Bulldog student-athletes (past and present), our outstanding coaches, the hardest working staff in athletics plus the University and Big Rapids communities at large for their support. To our alumni, sponsors and donors …. we cannot do what we do without your support and contributions, thank you!

Finally, I want to publicly express my love and gratitude to my spouse, Buffy, for her unconditional support and understanding of my passion for building teams, cultures and championship opportunities and for recognizing the time and energy that is required to do this job. I also want to thank our adult sons, Jack and Joe, for their support as Bulldog fans and for enjoying stadium food too often as a replacement for sit-down family dinners."

Go Bulldogs!