Jim Unke enters the 2018-19 school year in his 22nd year as Director of Athletics at Martin Luther College (MLC).
During his tenure, Unke has helped the Knights remain competitive in its 16 varsity sports, and also has also played a pivotal role in the school’s strong athletic facilities, including the opening the school’s soccer facility and baseball field.
Along with his duties at MLC, Unke has also served a number of important roles with the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC). He served as commissioner of the conference office, and has also served on a number of committees for the conference as it has grown as a Division III member.*
Throughout his 19 years as Director of Athletics, Unke has also served as Head Men’s Basketball Coach for MLC. During his tenure, Unke has led the Knights to a pair of UMAC titles (2002-03 and 2008-09), and was named UMAC Coach of the Year following the 2007-08 and 2008-09 seasons.
Prior to his tenure at MLC, Unke served as Athletic Director both at the high school (Lakeside Lutheran High School in Lake Mills, WI) and grade school (St. Paul Lutheran Grade School in New Ulm, MN).
Unke resides in New Ulm with his wife Lori, who serves as an Admissions Counselor at MLC. The couple has three children – Dan, Angie, and Jake.
