Jim Sterk Named New Athletic Director

Jim Sterk has been named San Diego State University’s new Director of Intercollegiate Athletics.  The announcement was made today by SDSU President Stephen L. Weber.

“I’m thrilled with this opportunity and looking forward to taking SDSU Athletics to next level of success,” said Sterk.  “We want to build a program that the university, the community and all Aztecs fans can be proud of.”

Sterk, 53, comes to SDSU from Washington State University where he has served as athletic director since 2000.  Prior to his hire at WSU, he served as AD at Portland State University from 1995 to 2000.  He brings 24 years experience in athletics administration performing a variety of roles.  His appointment follows a national search.  Weber introduced Sterk at an afternoon news conference held on campus.  Weber says he believes Sterk is a perfect fit for a program on the rise:

“Academically, our student athletes are performing better than ever,” said Weber.  “More teams are now competing for conference championships.  With this hire, all of the key ingredients are in place:  outstanding leadership and coaches, incredible facilities and a top university located in one of the most attractive and innovative cities in America.”

Sterk brings a solid reputation and the respect of his peers across the country – WSU having been recognized in 2006 as the D-1A Athletic Directors’ “Program of Excellence.”  

• Over the past three years, 13 WSU teams have competed in NCAA post-season tournaments.  
• Academically, the exhausted eligibility rate for WSU student athletes is 92 percent over the past 10 years – ranking WSU second in the PAC-10 to Stanford.
• WSU Athletic Foundation membership has doubled since 2000 and annual gifts have increased from just under $3 million in 2000 to more than $13 million in 2008.

Asked about how he would attract more fans to Aztecs games and create more revenue for the department, Sterk responded:  

“Division one athletics is an important tradition at San Diego State and increasingly a big part of the SDSU student experience,” said Sterk.  “We are going to build on that tradition and reach out to students, staff, alumni and the entire community. With more success on the field, we expect to see more fans at games and create the type of experience as currently exists at Viejas Arena for men’s basketball games.”

Sterk is expected to begin work at SDSU in March.  Terms of his contract are being finalized and are not yet available. Sterk and his wife Debra have three children: Ashley (20), Amy (18) and Abby (14). 

Watch the entire press conference introducing Jim Sterk as Athletic Director.