Eric SorensonTUCSON — It didn’t take long for the University of Arizona to find Greg Bryne’s successor.
Thursday morning inside Lowell-Stevens football Facility it became official as school President Dr. Ann Weaver Hart introduced new Vice President for Athletics Dave Heeke (pronounced hee-key) who comes to Tucson after leaving the same position at Central Michigan.
Heeke is no stranger to the conference having spent 18 years in the University of Oregon athletics department before leaving for CMU.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be part of the Arizona Athletics family. It is truly an honor to be named the new Vice President for Athletics and have the opportunity to return to the prestigious Pac-12 Conference,” Heeke said. “I want to thank Dr. Hart and those involved with the search process for their confidence in my ability to lead one of the premiere athletics departments in the country. This program is about excellence and we will continue to focus on achieving at the very highest level athletically and academically, while creating the finest experience in the country for our student-athletes.”
Excited to come to Tucson and join the Wildcats! It’s a true honor & privilege Can’t wait to #BearDown https://t.co/GSvhsG1eaH
— Dave Heeke (@Dave_Heeke) February 25, 2017
Heeke has several close friends and ties within the conference, including the well-respected and liked Byrne, who he spoke to before taking the position.
“Dave Heeke is an outstanding hire for the University of Arizona,” said Byrne in a statement released by Arizona following Heeke’s hire. “His vast experience working with student-athletes, coaches, staff, fans and university communities at CMU and in the Pac-12 makes Dave the perfect selection. I want to commend President Hart, the Arizona Board of Regents and those involved in the search on bringing Dave to Tucson.”
Both head basketball coach Sean Miller, as well as head football coach Rich Rodriguez attended the event.
An East Lansing, Michigan native Heeke and his wife Liz have three boys: Ryan, Max and Zach.
