New AD / Soccer

[Zip_ME87]

http://gozips.com/general/2015-16/Releases/WIlliams_Larry_Release_081815

I'm optimistic about his credentials...

Williams brings a diverse athletics background and proven track record with him to Akron. Throughout his career, he has been a NCAA Division I athletic director, collegiate and professional athlete, including a stint with the Cleveland Browns, practicing attorney, media talent, university marketing administrator, and most recently, a top executive in the corporate trademark licensing and marketing industry.

Williams comes to the University from Equity Management, Inc., where he led the nation's largest corporate licensing program, increasing marketing, royalties, and branding.

Prior to that, Williams directed the athletics department at two universities, focusing on competitive excellence, academic success, and business fundamentals.

As the vice president and director of athletics at Marquette University, Williams saw the Golden Eagles achieve unprecedented broad-based excellence. The men's basketball team reached the NCAA Sweet 16 and Elite 8. Marquette was one of only two schools to have its men's soccer, women's soccer, and women's volleyball teams receive NCAA berths in back-to-back years and Top 10 RPI rankings in 2013.

Likewise, the Portland Pilots, under Williams' leadership, won a NCAA Division I Championship in women's soccer in 2005, and earned Top 10 finishes in men's cross country as well as first-ever national rankings in men's basketball, baseball, and tennis.

Williams' business acumen was also demonstrated when he spearheaded Marquette's membership into the new Big East Conference, increasing media revenue and television exposure; and oversaw significant facility expansion, including a new soccer stadium and a training center for all student-athletes.

I will admit, I'm a little concerned about his Notre Dame connection. That has not worked well for UA in the past. Hopefully, the 3rd time is a charm, as the old adage goes.

[ZachTheZip]

Is he the one responsible for Marquette icing their field before we played them in the NCAA tournament?

[Zip_ME87]

Is he the one responsible for Marquette icing their field before we played them in the NCAA tournament?

If so, then he's got even better credentials than I realized. The ability to control the weather is most impressive.

[Captain Kangaroo]

His he can keep the Zips from having to play "away" games in the NCAA tourney when we have a better record than our opponent, or have beaten them in the regular season, I will be a fan.

[Zip_ME87]

His he can keep the Zips from having to play "away" games in the NCAA tourney when we have a better record than our opponent, or have beaten them in the regular season, I will be a fan.

I still think that was additional punishment for what occurred at Marquette the year before. That should be completely behind us now.

[a-zip]

Good hire.

[Z.I.P.]

As a one-time Portlander, I am really THRILLED by the background Larry Williams brings, and his experience working with the late legendary Portland coach Clive Charles. He upgraded their facilities while at UP, and they have one of the best stadia in college soccer. And...have been hoping for a return of our men to PDX since they last played there in 2000 IIRC. Was told before Caleb's escape that we were due to play there, but so far, nothing.

On that score -- I know that we have a UA soccer alum at who's home in West Portland the team stayed the last time around. I suspect I know him as a former classmate, but am not certain. Can anyone who knows the mystery (supposed software developer) ex-Zip, PM me? Thanks

[Zip_ME87]

http://ow.ly/RmMVw

Good introductory press conference. I like the vision starting at 9:10. Didn't say how to make it happen, but unlike his predecesser, he's embracing soccer.