Marian Knights Athletic Director Steve Downing is the 2022-2023 
Crossroads League Athletic Director of the Year! It's the first time the Crossroads League named Downing its top athletic director."
I am extremely honored and humbled to be named the Crossroads League Athletic Director of the Year," stated Downing. "Given the league that our teams compete in at Marian, this is not only a tremendous recognition for myself, but for Marian University as well. This has been a great year for us at Marian, not only scoring second-place in the Crossroads League All-Sports Standings, but leading the league as the national runner-up in the Learfield Directors' Cup is a perfect capper. I thank my tremendous staff at Marian, not only on the administrative side, but our coaches as well, who have helped make this year so extraordinary."
In addition to overseeing Marian's runner-up showing in the NAIA Learfield Director's Cup, Downing's Knights saw 14 teams advance to compete at an NAIA National Championship event, and nine teams claim Crossroads League Championships during the 2022-2023 year. In addition to the 14 teams competing at NAIA Championships, Marian's cross-country team sent one runner from each of the men's and women's teams to the NAIA Championships, and the Marian cycling team finished in the top three of the USA Collegiate Cycling omnium race.
Congratulations, Director Downing for being our Shining Star! We appreciate all you've done for student-athletes, teaching them leadership and integrity in academics, and teamwork!