Colorado Athletic Director Rick George has announced his retirement, revealed in a press release from school officials on Thursday afternoon.
George’s retirement becomes effective at the end of the academic year, as he will transition to a new role: Special Advisor to the Chancellor and Athletic Director Emeritus. In George’s release, he says this decision was not made lightly. He also states he’s fully committed to assisting the search for CU’s next athletic director and making sure the transition is as smooth
as possible.
“As you know, it’s an unprecedented time in college athletics, and I feel confident that CU is in a great position to succeed,” George wrote in his statement to Colorado alumni and fans. “Your continued support of our programs and of our student-athletes will ensure Colorado Athletics continues to compete at the highest level in everything we do.”
George, who has been the AD at Colorado for 13 years after taking over in 2013, was previously the COO of the MLB’s Texas Rangers before coming to Boulder. Under George, Colorado’s football program has had four head coaches and three winning seasons, including the shortened 2020 season during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Colorado’s men’s basketball program made the NCAA Tournament four times under the watch of George, although a sure-fire fifth appearance was taken away from the Buffs once again due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CU’s women’s hoops program made the NCAA Tournament twice under George, in 2023 and 2024, where the Buffs made back-to-back Sweet Sixteen runs. Colorado’s Ski Team won two national championships since George took over in 2013.
CU will now look for a new athletic director for the first time in 13 years. If any news breaks concerning the search, we’ll update you here at Ralphie Report.
