T-BIRD MOMENTS OF 2025-26: JOHN MULHERN RECEIVES THUNDERBIRD LEADERSHIP AWARD
One of the most meaningful moments of the 2025-26 season came at the 4th Annual Thunderbird Awards when Mesa Community College Director of Athletics John Mulhern was honored with the Thunderbird Leadership Award.
Presented by the Mesa Community College Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C.), the award recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on Thunderbird Athletics through leadership, service, and dedication to student-athlete success.
Mulhern's connection to Mesa Athletics spans more than two decades. Since joining the department in 1999, he has served in a variety of roles, including assistant men's basketball coach, assistant volleyball coach, adjunct instructor, assistant athletic director, head volleyball coach, and head men's basketball coach before being named Director of Athletics in 2012.
Under his leadership, Thunderbird Athletics has experienced tremendous success, capturing 53 region championships and five national championships while producing more than 100 All-Americans and over 450 Academic All-Americans.
Beyond the championships and accolades, Mulhern's commitment to providing opportunities for student-athletes to succeed both academically and athletically has helped shape the culture of Thunderbird Athletics.
As one of the defining moments of the 2025-26 campaign, Mulhern's recognition with the Thunderbird Leadership Award earned its place among the memorable T-Bird Moments of the season.
Photo Credit: Branden Davis
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