BREAKING: Washington State University has officially fired athletic director Anne McCoy, a decision that took many by surprise due to its timing. The announcement, made on July 26, 2023, reflects a significant shift in the university’s athletic leadership as new WSU president Elizabeth Cantwell seeks to reshape the program’s future.
The dismissal comes amid concerns over fundraising stagnation and a pressing need for a renewed focus on football and men’s basketball. McCoy’s tenure, which lasted just 17 months, hinged on the performance of football coach Jimmy Rogers. If Rogers can secure victories, McCoy’s legacy may still hold some merit despite her departure.
Cantwell’s decisive action underscores her commitment to revitalizing WSU athletics during a transformative era marked by revenue sharing, NIL deals, and an evolving conference landscape. Having previously driven Utah State’s transition to the Pac-12, Cantwell aims to position the Cougars for success.
As WSU begins the search for McCoy’s replacement, expectations are high. The university is likely to engage a search firm to identify candidates, but it is critical for Cantwell to consider advice from former WSU athletic officials who understand the unique challenges facing the program.
Three prominent candidates have emerged as potential successors:
1. **Jim Sterk**, former WSU athletic director currently leading Western Washington.
2. **Mike Marlow**, recently retired Northern Arizona athletic director and WSU alumnus.
3. **JD Wicker**, San Diego State’s athletic director with past ties to Pullman.
These individuals could offer valuable insights into navigating the current challenges and maximizing WSU’s strengths. Additionally, Cantwell may consult Diana Sabau, her former colleague at Utah State, who recently joined Maryland’s athletics team.
The search should not be limited to candidates with WSU connections. Pat Chun’s successful fundraising efforts after arriving from Florida Atlantic in 2018 demonstrate that experience and capability can outweigh institutional ties. McCoy’s long tenure did not yield the same fundraising success, highlighting the need for a candidate who can energize donors and stakeholders.
Potential external candidates include:
– **Bryan Blair**, Toledo’s athletic director and former WSU deputy, known for his fundraising prowess.
– **Ken Halpin**, Purdue’s deputy athletic director, who has deep ties to the region and experience in revenue generation.
– **Scott Wetherbee**, Eastern Michigan’s athletic director, who has raised over $30 million for capital projects and has a strong background in SEC external relations.
As WSU moves forward, the urgency for strong athletic leadership is evident. Cantwell’s proactive approach and desire for success signal a promising direction, paving the way for the Cougars to thrive in the competitive landscape of college sports.
Stay tuned for further updates as the search for WSU’s next athletic director unfolds. This is a pivotal moment for the Cougars, and the decisions made in the coming days will shape the future of WSU athletics.
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