After a decade of service, Minnesota athletic director Joel Maturi (pictured, right) has decided to retire, according to an email he sent to athletes, coaches and supporters.
Maturi, who signed an extension in 2008, won’t renew his contract when it ends in June.
“It is with mixed emotions that I share with you that ... I will announce my retirement as the director of athletics at the University of Minnesota effective June 30th,” Maturi said. “There is sadness because I have enjoyed every day of this 10-year journey. There is excitement because President Kaler has asked me to remain next year as a special assistant to the president.”
A press conference scheduled for 11 a.m. CT on Thursday also confirmed the news, which had been hitting the rumor mill earlier this morning. Maturi will now take an assistant role under new school president Eric Kaler.
“Joel’s legacy will be a lasting and shining one,” said Kaler. “Joel has consistently said he has more to offer, and I think that’s true. ... He is a persuasive advocate for the institution.”
Be that as it may, there’s no doubt Maturi will be judged on hiring football coaches Glen Mason and Tim Brewster; the success of Jerry Kill remains to be seen.
A search will begin right away for Maturi’s successor. A new AD is expected to begin on July 1, one day after Maturi’s retirement.
“Obviously I will look for someone with experience in D-I athletics and someone with good business acumen,” Kaler said. “I also want someone who will engage well with the rest of the community -- booster, alumni [and others.]”