The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men’s basketball program has announced the addition of Andy Fitzgerald as an assistant coach heading into the 2026-27 season.
Fitzgerald arrives at UW-Whitewater with nearly 15 years of coaching experience, having most recently served as the boys’ varsity head coach at the University School of Milwaukee. His addition strengthens a Warhawk program known for its tradition, competitive standards, and commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the court.
“What drew me to UW-Whitewater was the opportunity to be part of a program with a strong tradition of success while working alongside coaches and student-athletes who are committed to competing at a high level,” Fitzgerald said. “I saw those values reflected at UW-Whitewater. I’ve been passionate about building relationships, developing players, and creating a culture that challenges people to grow both on and off the court.”
For Fitzgerald, UW-Whitewater represented the right combination of competitive excellence, institutional support, and community. He said the opportunity to contribute to a winning program while continuing to grow as a coach made UW-Whitewater an ideal fit.
“I was looking for a place where I could continue to develop as a coach while contributing to a winning program,” Fitzgerald said. “UW-Whitewater offers the chance to compete in one of the best Division III conferences in the country, and I believe that environment will continue to push me professionally.”
Head Coach Jarod Wichser, entering his fourth year at the helm of the Warhawk program, is looking forward to the experience Fitzgerald brings to the program. “I am very excited about the addition of Andy to our program. Andy brings a wealth of experience and basketball knowledge that will be a tremendous asset to our team” said Coach Wichser.
Fitzgerald brings both head coach and assistant coaching experience to the Warhawk bench. His experience leading a program has prepared him to assist in multiple areas, including player development, scouting, practice planning, and day-to-day program operations.
“What I bring to the UW-Whitewater staff is the perspective of someone who has led a program,” Fitzgerald said. “I want to be dependable and add value in any way I can.”
Fitzgerald said his coaching philosophy is centered on service, trust, and consistent growth.
“I believe strongly in servant leadership,” Fitzgerald said. “My coaching philosophy is centered on relationships, accountability and daily improvement. Players perform at their highest level when they know they’re valued as people first.”
Fitzgerald also has numerous years of experience as an assistant coach throughout the NCAA levels with stints as an assistant coach at Division I UW-Milwaukee and Division II UW-Parkside, as well as Division III’s Edgewood University, Lake Forest College, and NJCAA Bryant & Stratton.
“I want to contribute to a culture where players are challenged, supported, and held to a championship standard every day.” Fitzgerald expressed. “My goal is to help this program continue to compete for championships while ensuring our student-athletes leave UW-Whitewater as better players, better teammates, and better people.”
Before beginning his coaching career, Fitzgerald was a four-year member of the men’s basketball program at UW-Parkside. During his playing career, he was recognized as an Academic All-American and earned a spot on the National Association of Basketball Coaches Honors Court, experiences that helped shape his commitment to excellence in both athletics and academics.
“His passion for the game, combined with his commitment to developing and mentoring others, makes him an outstanding fit.” says Coach Jarod Wichser. “We are confident that his leadership, energy, and dedication will have a positive impact on both our student-athletes and our culture.”
Fitzgerald said he is grateful for the opportunity to join the Warhawks and looks forward to helping the program continue its championship standard.
“I want to thank Coach Wichser for this opportunity,” Fitzgerald said. “My goal is to help this program continue to compete for championships while ensuring our student-athletes leave UW-Whitewater as better players, better teammates, and better people.”
Fitzgerald also joins the university as a lecturer in the Kinesiology Department, bringing a strong background in coaching, player development, leadership, and academic achievement to the Warhawks. He holds an MBA from Edgewood University, a master’s degree in sports management from Florida State University, and a bachelor’s degree in sports management from UW-Parkside. He also earned coaching certificates from both Florida State and UW-Parkside.
https://uwwsports.com/news/2026/7/8/uww-mens-basketball-announces-fitzgerald-as-assistant-coach.aspx
