The Valparaiso University Department of Athletics has announced the promotion of Andrew Zappetillo and the hiring of Sam Back, both of whom will serve as Director of Events & Facilities and provide leadership for the department’s event and facility management areas.
Zappetillo has been a fixture in the department for over a decade. He first worked for Valpo Athletics in a part-time capacity from 2013-2022, building up considerable institutional knowledge. That knowledge continued to grow after he was hired in a full-time role as Assistant Director of Event Management and Facilities beginning in October 2022.
Zappetillo has helped the department host numerous conference championship events, including the Horizon League men’s basketball tournament that featured the memorable Ryan Broekhoff buzzer-beater in March 2013, his first year on the job. He also helped host the National Invitational Tournament (NIT) in March 2016 and has helped the ARC play host to multiple concerts. During his time on staff, Zappetillo has been part of renovations to Brown Field, the Valpo Softball Complex, Emory G. Bauer Field and the Athletics-Recreation Center in addition to the installation of Warren G. Hoger Track.
“I am honored at the opportunity to continue my work here at Valpo,” Zappetillo said. “Growing up in this town, I came to many sold out games and I absolutely loved the energy and atmosphere this place had despite the size. With this new role, I will continue doing my part to better this department for our students, athletes and the community. Simply put, Valpo is a special place, and I am truly excited about the future of Valpo Athletics.”
A 2023 Valparaiso University graduate with a degree in sport management, Back returns to his alma mater after most recently working as the Recreation Director for the City of La Porte Park and Recreation. During his time in that role, he supervised the recreational programs, scheduled facilities, purchased equipment and supplies and managed a team of 18-20 supervisors and instructors.
Back, a native of North Judson, Ind., gained significant experience during his undergraduate days at Valpo, serving as a men’s basketball student manager for five years including three as the head manager. He was named to Grow the Game’s Manager All-American Team following the 2021-2022 campaign. Back organized team meals, assisted with travel logistics, handled set up and tear down for practice and served as assistant kids camp director. He also served as a student worker in a variety of areas within the athletic department including ticketing and marketing.
“I am very excited to return to Valpo and have the opportunity to impact our student-athletes and coaches in this role,” Back said. “I want to thank Dr. Charles Small for the opportunity to work for Valpo Athletics and I cannot wait to support the department’s mission and vision on a daily basis.”
Zappetillo’s promotion is effective immediately, while Back will begin his position on Monday, March 18.
“We are excited to welcome Sam back to Valpo and to provide Andrew with a well-earned opportunity to grow his role,” said Associate Athletic Director for Business Services Candy Jessen, who oversees event management and facilities. “Both have proven their ability to succeed in this role through their experience here at Valpo. Work ethic and institutional knowledge will help make Andrew and Sam successful. We look forward to their impact on our events and facilities unit.”