William Peace University

Shields originally joined William Peace in the fall of 2011 as the institution’s first Men’s Basketball and Men’s Golf Coach. Since his arrival, he has played a major role in the growth and development of William Peace Athletics both on and off the court. During the Pacers’ second season competing in the USA South Athletic Conference in 2014-15, the men’s basketball program finished second in the league standings, earning Shields the first Coach of the Year honor in department history. He also guided the program to a then school-record 18 wins while surpassing 100 career victories as a head coach.

In 2015, Shields was promoted to Assistant Athletic Director, overseeing multiple athletic programs while serving as the department’s Compliance Coordinator for NCAA, USA South, and institutional eligibility matters. He was elevated to Deputy Director of Athletics in March 2021, taking on additional administrative oversight and budget responsibilities before being named Interim Director of Athletics in May 2022. During his interim tenure, William Peace Athletics experienced one of the most successful years in department history, with four programs advancing to USA South Conference Tournament championship games.

Throughout his time at William Peace, Shields has helped guide the continued growth of the Pacers’ athletic department while emphasizing student-athlete development, competitive success, and campus community engagement.