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Dave Hardy is stepping down as the chief athletics officer at the University of Saskatchewan.
The university announced the decision in a news release on Wednesday.
“The world has changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and university athletics was by no means spared,” Hardy said in the release.
“The road to recovery is going to be a long one and I feel it is in the best interest of Huskie Athletics to have long-term leadership in place. I have been proud to have had the chance to contribute to the university’s storied athletic program during these challenging times, however, I feel that it is the right time to begin the search for a new (chief athletics officer).”
Hardy took on the top job at the university’s athletic department in August 2019. The former high school teacher, principal and school superintendent in Saskatoon accepted a term of “up to two years” after previous chief athletics officer Shawn Burt stepped down after his two-year term to be closer to family in Ontario.
Hardy, who was unanimously recommended for the job by the university, will remain at his job until a replacement can be found.
Debra Pozega Osburn, the vice president of university relations and a member of the Huskie athletics board of trustees, thanked Hardy for time and commitment.
“We are grateful for the leadership, experience and passion that Dave has brought to the Huskie Athletics program,” Pozega Osburn said. “He has built both success for the program and momentum for the future. His commitment to excellence has made a difference.”
The University of Saskatchewan will now launch a nationwide search for Hardy’s successor.
“It has been an honour to have had the opportunity to serve the university in this role,” Hardy said. “I would like to thank USask, the board of trustees, the coaches and our student-athletes for allowing me this privilege to contribute to a historic program that we are all so passionate about. With the continued support of USask senior leadership, our alumni, the student body and the greater Saskatoon community I feel strongly that Huskie Athletics is positioned well for the future.”
