Coming on the heels of the departures/imminent departures of Mike Garrett, Mike Hamilton and Dick Baddour* from USC, Tennessee and North Carolina, respectively -- and as Ohio State’s Gene Smith surveys a walk-in closet full of Teflon business suits -- an NCAA investigation has claimed yet another athletic director whose programs had come under The Association’s scrutiny.
As first reported by Brian Murphy of the Idaho Statesman and confirmed by the school as well, long-time Boise State athletic director Gene Bleymaier has been relieved of his duties, effective Sept. 8 of this year. The stunning move comes two months to the day that the university appeared in front of the Committee on Infractions to address allegations involving the football program as well as the track & field and women’s tennis programs; the latter program was involved in the most serious violations.
Bleymaier had been the full-time head of the athletic department since 1982, and oversaw the football program’s development from regional powerhouse to an annual contender on the national stage.
In his statement on Bleymaier’s imminent departure, president Bob Kustra, while acknowledging what the soon-to-be former AD had accomplished in nearly 30 years, stated that the NCAA’s investigation prompted him to seek a new direction for the athletic department.
“Gene Bleymaier has been a driving force behind the achievements and growth of Boise State athletics for nearly 30 years. His dedication and guidance have been vital to the success of countless Bronco teams and student athletes,” Kustra said in a statement. “As Athletic Director, it was Gene’s inspiration that led to the signature blue turf at Bronco Stadium. During his tenure, Boise State has upgraded athletic facilities across campus, climbed the ladder in conference affiliation, and developed a nationwide following. On behalf of the entire Boise State community, I would like to thank Gene for his invaluable contributions to the University. The legacy that he has created will provide us with a solid foundation for many years to come. ...
“I did not come to this decision lightly. After a careful management review and discussions about the future of the program, I determined that new leadership will be needed as we commit ourselves to the highest level of attention and enforcement of NCAA standards, and also continue to move Boise State athletics to the next level of success.”
The release ended by stating that “an interim athletic director will be appointed, followed by a national search to fill the post on a permanent basis.”
(*yes, I know; Baddour’s departure had nothing to do with the NCAA investigation that cost Butch Davis his job winkwinknudgenudge)