Rick George Steps Down as Colorado AD, Transitions to Advisory Role
Rick George, the athletics director of the University of Colorado, has announced he will step down at the end of the academic year. He will transition into a special advisory role for Chancellor Justin Schwartz, as reported on Thursday.
Transitioning Leadership
George has led Colorado’s athletic department since 2013. He previously worked under the legendary coach Bill McCartney as a recruiting coordinator during Colorado’s only national championship season in 1990.
In his announcement, George emphasized the importance of new leadership for the department. He stated, “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Athletic Director for the University of Colorado for the last 13 years.” His decision followed thorough discussions with his family, initiated last spring.
Achievements and Impact
Under George’s leadership, several significant developments occurred:
- Oversaw the construction of a new athletics building attached to Folsom Field.
- Named the Athletic Director of the Year for 2023-24 by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics.
- Successfully hired Deion Sanders as head football coach, which garnered national attention for Colorado football.
- Facilitated Colorado’s return to the Big 12 Conference.
George’s actions have been pivotal, particularly in light of the Pac-12’s challenges following UCLA and USC’s exit to the Big Ten.
Chancellor Schwartz praised George, noting his invaluable contributions and recognizing him as a respected leader. Schwartz expressed gratitude for George’s commitment to ensure a smooth transition in his new advisory role.
Career Background
Before his tenure at Colorado, George served as the Chief Operating Officer for the Texas Rangers, a Major League Baseball team. The timeline for appointing a new athletics director has yet to be announced.
