Overview
The Chattanooga Mocs campus and community is saddened to share the passing of former equipment manager Mike Royster. Mike was a dedicated member of the Mocs family whose steady presence and unwavering commitment shaped generations of student-athletes, student managers and coaches. Mike served UTC for nearly 50 years with pride and heartfelt resolve leaving a lasting legacy.
 
The Mocs extend our deepest sympathies to Mike's family and friends as we remember a man who served with heart, humor and humble devotion.
 
Quotable
"Mike was a true titan in his industry. Chattanooga was blessed to have him for close to 50 years which is a testament to his loyalty and love for our programs, coaches and most of all, our student-athletes. He will be greatly missed." – Mark Wharton, Vice Chancellor for Athletics
 
"A great loss for this University. Mike was a staple on this campus for 47 years. A giant of a man but a giant of a person as well. There was never a dull moment around him. Just a good man and a damn good Moc." – Rusty Wright, Head Football Coach & Alumni Student-Athlete
 
"Mike was a great friend and mentor during my time in athletics at UTC. He cared more for the Mocs than anyone I have ever worked with and dedicated a 47-year career to this University.  He will truly be missed." – Dr. Jay Blackman, Vice Chancellor for Marketing & Communications
 
"He might have been the most misunderstood person I've ever known. He was the softest, kindest person with the hardest exterior I've ever seen." – Jim Reynolds, Voice of the Mocs
 
"I can honestly say that coming to UTC was the best decision I have made for me. I have been lucky enough to work with a lot of great professionals through the years, but also some of the greatest and hardest working young people throughout my 47 years. I thank God every day for that. It has been an honor being here." – Mike Royster in his retirement notice to his supervisor
 
Resources
For a deeper look into Mike's impact and presence not only in athletics but on campus as a whole, read this feature written by University Communications Director Chuck Wasserstrom at the time of Mike's retirement.
 
Chattanooga Times Free Press piece on Mike's retirement.
 
Our GoMocs.com release announcing his retirement on June 22, 2021.
 
Memorial
At the time of his retirement, the Mike Royster Student Equipment Manager Endowed Scholarship was formed. This scholarship directly benefits student managers who were under Mike's guidance throughout his career at UTC. To donate to this scholarship fund in any amount, visit GoMocs.com/Royster.

A celebration of life visitation will be held on Friday, Dec. 12, from 6-9 p.m., at Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel in Hixson.
 
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