Rick George to Step Down as Colorado Athletic Director, Transitioning to Advisory Role
Table of Contents
Colorado buffaloes fans face a leadership shift as Rick George announced he will step down as Athletic Director at the end of the academic year. The move,revealed by the university on Thursday,November 13,2025,will see George transition into a special advisor role for the chancellor.This decision marks the end of a 13-year tenure that dramatically reshaped the landscape of Colorado athletics.
A Legacy Forged in Boulder
George’s connection to the University of Colorado runs deep. He initially served on the staff of legendary football coach Bill McCartney in 1990 – the year the Buffaloes secured their only national title – as the recruiting coordinator and assistant athletic director for football operations. Returning to Boulder in 2013 as AD, George brought a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the future of the program.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Athletic Director for the University of Colorado for the last 13 years, but after considerable thought and discussions with my family dating back to last spring, I have decided it is time for new leadership to guide the department,” George stated. He emphasized his commitment to a smooth transition, adding, “I wanted to make this announcement now to give Chancellor Schwartz plenty of time to find the right person for Colorado, and I look forward to doing everything I can to ensure a smooth transition.”
Key Achievements and a Bold Coaching Hire
During his time as Athletic Director, George oversaw notable infrastructure improvements, including the development of a new athletics building connected to Folsom Field. His leadership was also recognized nationally, earning him the Athletic Director of the Year award in 2023-24 from the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics.
However, George’s legacy will likely be most defined by his pivotal decision to hire Deion Sanders as the football coach. This move injected unprecedented national attention into Colorado football, revitalizing the program and captivating a broad audience. He also spearheaded Colorado’s return to the Big 12 conference, a move that proved instrumental in the unraveling of the Pac-12 following the departures of UCLA and USC to the Big Ten.
George also contributed to the broader collegiate athletic landscape thru his involvement with the College Football Playoff Selection Committee and the Division I Council.
A Smooth Transition and Continued Support
Chancellor Justin Schwartz lauded George’s contributions, stating, “rick’s contributions to our university in his 13 years as head of our athletic department have been incalculable.” schwartz expressed gratitude for George’s leadership and welcomed his continued involvement as a Special advisor and AD Emeritus.
Notably, George intends to remain engaged with the athletic department, specifically offering support to Coach Prime and the football team.
Why did Rick George step down? Rick George announced his resignation as Athletic Director after 13 years, citing a desire for new leadership to guide the department. He made the decision after considerable thought and discussions with his family, beginning last spring.
Who is taking over? While a timeline hasn’t been announced, george will transition to a special advisor role for the chancellor. The university has not yet identified a successor.
**What were George’s
