LOGAN, Utah -- Scott Barnes has been the athletic director at Utah State University for seven years. In that time, the Aggies have been wildly successful. He spearheaded multiple campus builds for student athletes, including the Laub Complex.
Now, the Aggies will have to move on, looking for a new AD who can carry on Barnes' success. Barnes has accepted a position as athletic director at University of Pittsburgh.
"He's a rock star; I mean, he is a major, major player here at Utah State," USU football head coach Matt Wells said. "From taking Utah State into the Mountain West to all the facility changes and renovations--he's been nothing but supportive of us, the football program. We're just happy for him and support him along the way."
USU senior Bradley Wells also spoke about Barnes' impact at the school.
"What he's done for the university has been so amazing," he said. "It was a matter of time before he left, and after the big deal with Maverik Stadium: I'm not surprised at all."
Even though Barnes is leaving, the Aggies are confident the future is bright.
"Right now is the best time ever to be a Utah State Aggie," Matt Wells said.
Dallin Laird, USU student athletic and recreation VP, said he is excited about the future.
"It's always great to have new opportunities, to have new blood to come in and that opens doors to new things so, excited to see what happens," Laird said.
Matt Wells said he has faith in the future AD.
"I have great confidence they will find a guy to hopefully take another step," he said.
Scott Barnes will start his new position as athletic director of University of Pittsburgh on July 1, 2015.
It's unknown whether Utah State University has started actively looking for a new athletic director.
