Texas Rangers exec Rick George named Colorado athletic director

Rick George served as the PGA TOUR's chief of operations prior to joining the Rangers. (Chris Condon/Getty Images)

Colorado announced Texas Rangers president of business operations Rick George as the school's athletic director on Wednesday.

George has Colorado ties, having served as the school's assistant athletic director for football operations from 1987-91. He takes the job left open in May when Mike Bohn reportedly was forced out after eight years. Bohn's departure has been linked to the school's desire to improve athletic department revenue and fundraising.

George will be asked to oversee a $50 million fundraising campaign as part of a $170 million upgrade of the school's athletics facilities including Folsom Field and the Dal Ward Center, plus the development of an indoor practice facility.

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From the Associated Press:

Chancellor Philip DiStefano said George's "financial and management acumen, his networking and relationship development skills and his enthusiasm ... all make him the ideal leader for CU athletics at this important and challenging moment in our history."

George's promotion within the Rangers' hierarchy reportedly was one of the reasons why former team president Nolan Ryan considered leaving the organization during the off-season. Ryan remained CEO but saw his presidential duties split among George and Rangers general manager Jon Daniels.

Before joining the Rangers, George was executive vice president and chief of operations for the PGA TOUR where he focused on corporate marketing, sponsorship renewals and new event development.

From DenveriJournal.com:

“I am honored to be selected as director of intercollegiate athletics at CU-Boulder,” said George. “CU is a special place for my family and me, and this is a marvelous opportunity at a great university in the best collegiate athletic conference in the country. I am looking forward to getting back to CU to begin working at this great institution.”