Syracuse Athletics Director John Wildhack to Retire

Wildhack concludes 10-year tenure leading Orange athletics

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Syracuse University announced that John Wildhack, the school's athletic director for the past 10 years, will be retiring effective July 1, 2026. Wildhack, a Syracuse alumnus, previously spent over 35 years at ESPN before returning to his alma mater in 2016.

Why it matters

Wildhack's retirement comes at a significant time, as it coincides with the departure of Syracuse Chancellor Kent Syverud, who will be leaving to become president of the University of Michigan. The chancellor is the primary leader responsible for hiring the next athletic director, so this transition will be closely watched.

The details

During Wildhack's tenure, Syracuse teams won one national championship in men's soccer in 2022 and Justyn Knight won two individual championships in cross country and indoor track. Wildhack oversaw major facility renovations, including the renaming of the JMA Wireless Dome, and the hiring of several notable coaches across different sports.

  • Wildhack will remain in his role until July 1, 2026, completing 10 years as Syracuse's 11th athletic director.
  • Current Syracuse Chancellor Kent Syverud is also set to officially leave the school on July 1, 2026.

The players

John Wildhack

The outgoing athletic director of Syracuse University, who has held the position for the past 10 years after a 36-year career at ESPN.

Kent Syverud

The current chancellor of Syracuse University, who will be leaving the school on July 1, 2026 to become the president of the University of Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“It has been the greatest honor of my career to lead Syracuse Athletics. Syracuse University shaped the trajectory of my life, and to spend nearly a decade serving my alma mater has been an extraordinary privilege.”

— John Wildhack, Outgoing Athletic Director (Syracuse University Press Release)

What’s next

The Syracuse Board of Trustees have been meeting and searching for a new chancellor since Syverud announced his intentions to step down in August 2025. Details about the search for a new athletic director are expected to be announced soon.

The takeaway

Wildhack's retirement marks the end of an era for Syracuse athletics, as he has been a steadying presence leading the department for the past decade. His departure, coupled with the chancellor's exit, will usher in a new era of leadership at the university that will be closely watched by the Orange community.