Lehotak named NSAA Co-Athletic Director of the Year

BISMARCK, N.D. -- Bellevue University Athletic Director Ed Lehotak has been named the North Star Athletic Association (NSAA) Co-Athletic Director of the Year, recognizing his continued excellence in leadership and his pivotal role in one of the most successful athletic years in program history.

Under Lehotak's guidance, the Bruins captured NSAA Tournament championships in volleyball, baseball, men's golf, women's golf, and men's cross country during the 2024-25 academic year. Bellevue also claimed regular-season titles in volleyball and baseball. Highlighting the year was the volleyball program's remarkable run to the NAIA National Championship match, finishing as national runner-up and earning a final No. 2 national ranking—the highest in program history.

Lehotak has served as the university's athletic director since 2009. He previously earned NSAA Athletic Director of the Year honors in 2016-17 and 2020-21. During his tenure, he has overseen the addition of six new sports to the athletic department, bringing Bellevue's total to 12 programs.

Lehotak was instrumental in spearheading the completion of Bellevue's new 72,000-square-foot, two-level BU Fieldhouse, which officially opened earlier this spring. The state-of-the-art facility represents a major investment in the future of Bruin athletics and was brought to fruition under his strategic leadership.

Lehotak was also elected to the NAIA Athletic Directors' Association Board of Directors in 2019-20.