Tad Boyle Reflects on Rick George’s Retirement Announcement

Rick George, the athletic director of the University of Colorado (CU), has announced his decision to retire in the summer of 2024, after more than a decade in the role. Although George did not hire Tad Boyle, the head coach of the CU Buffs men’s basketball team, their relationship has flourished throughout what many consider the most successful period in the program’s history. Boyle appreciates the impact George has had on the athletic department and acknowledges the significance of his impending departure.

George, who has led CU’s athletic department since 2013, oversaw a remarkable period for the men’s basketball program. When he took office, Boyle’s team had just completed back-to-back appearances in the NCAA Tournament, setting attendance records at the CU Events Center during the 2012-13 season that still stand today. Over his tenure, Boyle’s Buffs have qualified for the NCAA Tournament six times, with a potential seventh appearance lost due to the cancellation of the 2020 tournament amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I knew at some point it was coming. I just didn’t know when,” Boyle remarked about George’s retirement. He acknowledged their shared experiences and the support he received from George over the years. Boyle particularly noted George’s pivotal role in securing funding for the Champions Center, a facility that has greatly benefited the athletic program.

While George focused on elevating the CU football program’s national profile—an objective that has faced challenges—Boyle’s consistent success in men’s basketball has simplified George’s responsibilities. Under George’s leadership, the Buffs transitioned from the Pac-12 Conference to the Big 12 in 2024, a significant milestone for the basketball program.

Despite the uncertainty that comes with a new athletic director, Boyle expressed eagerness to collaborate with the incoming leader. “I’m anxious to see what direction we go. I’m anxious to see who we hire,” he stated. Boyle emphasized the importance of this appointment in light of the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics.

The future athletic director will face challenges, including adapting to ongoing conference realignments and navigating the complexities of revenue sharing and fundraising. Boyle acknowledged George’s proactive approach during recent shifts in conference affiliations, particularly when the University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles moved to the Big Ten. He noted that CU was the first program to leave the Pac-12 following the departure of these two schools.

As Boyle prepares for this transition, he remains focused on maintaining the competitive edge of the CU Buffs. His long-standing relationship with George, characterized by mutual respect and support, will undoubtedly influence his approach to the upcoming changes in leadership. The next chapter for both Boyle and CU athletics promises to be an interesting one as they navigate the evolving challenges of collegiate sports.