XULA Athletics announces leadership change

NEW ORLEANS — Xavier Unversity of Louisiana announced changes Friday in athletics and recreation leadership.

Nathan Cochran, executive director of athletics and recreation since August 2021, resigned to take a job at another university. XULA Vice President Curtis Wright said Pat Kendrick — head coach of women’s volleyball, assistant athetics director and senior woman leader — will serve as interim executive director of athletics and recreation while XULA conducts a search for a full-time replacement.

Both transactions are effective immediately. Cochran’s new university has not yet announced his hiring.
Kendrick — 133-39 (.773) in six seasons as the Gold Nuggets’ coach with six earned automatic berths to NAIA nationals — will retain her volleyball duties.

“I am grateful for his service and extend well wishes to him and (wife) Candice,” Wright said of Cochran. “Coach Kendrick has served as a standard bearer throughout her tenure at Xavier and will continue to exceed expectations in her new role. Xavier will continue to serve our students with leadership and grace.”

XULA is a longtime member of the NAIA and is in its second season as a member of the Red River Athletic Conference. XULA won 98 team championships over the last 17 years.