UPDATE: Washington State University has just announced the dismissal of athletic director Anne McCoy, a decision that comes as a shock to many in the sports community. The announcement was made on July 26, 2023, and reflects a shift in leadership dynamics under new president Elizabeth Cantwell.
The timing of McCoy’s firing raises questions, as it underscores a growing urgency for WSU to enhance its athletic program amid evolving financial landscapes in college sports. Fundraising efforts had lagged under McCoy’s tenure, yet her legacy now hinges on the performance of football coach Jimmy Rogers. If Rogers achieves success, McCoy’s impact could still be viewed positively.
President Cantwell, known for her aggressive approach to athletics, aims to position WSU for a prosperous future, particularly as the Pac-12 faces significant changes. Cantwell played a pivotal role in Utah State’s transition to a new conference, indicating her commitment to elevating WSU’s programs.
Now, the university faces a critical question: Who will replace McCoy as athletic director? WSU is expected to engage a search firm to aid this process, but insiders hope that Cantwell will prioritize recommendations from former athletic officials who understand the unique challenges facing the Cougars.
Three potential candidates have surfaced immediately:
- Jim Sterk, former WSU athletic director, is currently at Western Washington and possesses valuable experience.
- Mike Marlow, the recently retired athletic director from Northern Arizona, is a WSU alumnus who previously served as deputy athletic director.
- JD Wicker, currently at San Diego State, has a decade of experience at WSU, making him a familiar face in the athletic landscape.
In addition to these names, the search should not be limited to WSU alumni. The university needs a leader capable of energizing donors and attracting financial support. Notably, Pat Chun, who came from Florida Atlantic, successfully raised significant funds, while McCoy struggled to secure NIL dollars.
Several other candidates could also fit the bill:
- Bryan Blair, the Toledo athletic director and former WSU deputy, is known for his fundraising success and deep understanding of the new Pac-12 dynamics.
- Ken Halpin, deputy athletic director at Purdue, holds degrees from Gonzaga and WSU and has experience running athletic departments.
- Scott Wetherbee, currently leading Eastern Michigan’s athletic department, has raised over $30 million for capital projects and has experience in the SEC.
As WSU embarks on this search for a new athletic director, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. The Cougars need a leader who aligns with Cantwell’s vision and can navigate the complexities of today’s college sports environment.
WSU’s commitment to winning, under Cantwell’s leadership, sets a promising tone for the future. As the university seeks to fill this pivotal role, the wider athletic community will be watching closely for the next steps. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
