FULTON, Mo.- William Woods University Athletics Officials announced today that Zachary Leffler has been named the Director of Athletic Communications for the department. Leffler has served in a similar role since October of 2024, finishing out his graduate assistant position.  

"I am happy that we were able to retain Zac. He is a great asset to the department and has done a great job over the past year," William Woods University Interim Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Casey Wieder said. "Zac's passion for William Woods athletics is unparallel and I am excited to see how he helps grow the department's communication efforts." 

Leffler started his journey in college athletics at Mineral Area College in Park Hills, serving as a student manager in charge of baseball operations before joining William Woods in the Fall 2021. While at William Woods, he acted as a student manager for the Owls baseball team for three seasons.  

After graduating from Woods in December 2023, Leffler started working in the sports information office as a graduate assistant. While serving as a graduate assistant, he was involved in creating the gameday atmosphere, statistical analysis, driving social media engagement, and increasing coverage for the growing department. In the Fall 2024, Leffler took over as the interim sports information director working to drive engagement and coverage for Owls Athletics. In the school year, WWU Athletics streaming saw a 20% increase in viewership over previous years while social media engagement grew to reach over 40,000 followers over multiple platforms.  

In his new role Zac will oversee all communication efforts for the athletic department, ensuring that coverage for Owls athletics continues to grow as William Woods joins the Heart of America Athletic Conference as a full member in 2025.  

"I am beyond excited to continue to work here at The Woods. This is a very special place that I have been honored to call home for the past four years," Leffler said. "I want to thank the William Woods Athletic Department for the opportunity to lead the department's communication efforts. As an alum, it truly is a great privilege to work for this great institution and continue to grow coverage for Owls Athletics." 

Leffler earned his Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education from William Woods University in 2023 and added a M.Ed. in athletic administration from Woods in 2025.