CU Buffs Coach Tad Boyle Reacts to Athletic Director’s Retirement

BREAKING: In an urgent announcement, Rick George, the athletic director of the University of Colorado (CU), confirmed his retirement plans, effective next summer. This news comes as a significant shift for the CU Buffs program, particularly for men’s basketball coach Tad Boyle, who has worked closely with George through a transformative era for the team.

George, who has held the athletic director position since 2013, will transition into a special athletics advisor role after his retirement. This change marks the end of an era, as Boyle has led the Buffs to six NCAA Tournament appearances during his tenure, with a seventh potentially missed due to the cancellation of the 2020 tournament amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a heartfelt response, Boyle expressed his gratitude for George’s support, stating, “I knew at some point it was coming. I just didn’t know when.” He acknowledged George’s pivotal role in building the Champions Center, highlighting the positive influence George has had on Colorado athletics. “He’s done a lot of good things for this department and this university,” Boyle added. “He’s stepping down, but he’s not stepping away.”

Under George’s leadership, the Buffs have navigated significant changes, including moving from the Pac-12 to the Big 12 in 2024. This transition represents a crucial advancement for the men’s basketball program, as George has focused on elevating the athletic department’s profile, especially in football, which has struggled for consistent national relevance.

Boyle noted that the upcoming transition could bring some uncertainty but expressed optimism about the future. “I’m anxious to see what direction we go. I think it’s a very, very important hire as we move forward,” he stated, emphasizing the need for the new athletic director to navigate the evolving landscape of college athletics.

As college sports continue to adapt, Boyle highlighted the importance of strategic positioning amid potential conference realignments, referencing the recent moves of USC and UCLA to the Big Ten. “Our next athletic director is going to have to be on top of the continued changing landscape of revenue sharing and fundraising,” he stated, signaling the critical role of leadership in these dynamic times.

With George’s retirement approaching, the CU Buffs community is left reflecting on the impact of his leadership while looking forward to the future. As Boyle prepares for the next chapter, fans and athletes alike are eager to see who will take the helm and guide the Buffs into a new era.

The official announcement of George’s retirement has sparked discussions among alumni and fans, with many sharing their appreciation for his contributions. As we await further developments, the focus shifts to the search for a successor who can build upon the strong foundation laid by George.

Next Steps: The university is expected to begin the search for George’s replacement soon, with many anticipating a thorough and strategic process given the significance of the role in shaping the future of CU athletics.