DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS DR. ROB SPEAR
University of Great Falls (BS) University of Montanan (MBA) University of Idaho (PhD)
VANDALS 2011-12
Rob Spear assumed the lead of the University of Idaho athhletic department during a crucial juncture in its storied history. y. The Vandals were seeking solidification of their conference e status and their facilities were in need of modernization. Theyy needed a leader with vision and passion. Spear fit the bill. First was securing a home in the Western Athletic Conferrence, a league that preserves historic rivalries and offers the e benefits of a Division I association. Next was rebuilding the e Vandals’ home. He was on hand to oversee the final stagess of the construction of the Iverson Speed and Strength Center. r. Next were the playing surfaces – inside and out. The Vandalss now have a SprinTurf practice facility outdoors and RealGrasss Pro inside the Kibbie Dome. The football, men’s and women’ss basketball, and swimming locker rooms were renovated into o modern, stylish facilities for the student-athletes. Last fall, the athletic training and equipment rooms were renovated classrooms and d and d state-of-the-art f h l d meeting i rooms came on line as part of a multi-million dollar facelift for the Kibbie Dome. Last fall, the first phase of a new-look Kibbie Dome debuted when the plywood on the west end wall was replaced with translucent panels. When the Vandals kickoff in 2011, not only will the east wall match the west but there will be a new club area with suites, loge boxes and a clubroom as well as premium seating and a new press box. Facilities are but one area where Spear has moved the department forward. He added to the support services staff to enhance the student-athlete experience. Computer labs and academic support staff are cornerstones of a successful department and the additions and upgrades in those areas are paying dividends. In the fall of 2007, the Idaho Athletics Hall of Fame was established with 100 individuals and five teams being inducted over a two-year period as part of the inaugural class. His involvement isn’t limited to the Idaho campus. He began a second term with the NCAA’s ‘Legislative Council – one of two top-tier governing bodies in the organization. “I am honored and excited to represent the Western Athletic Conference on this governing board,” Spear said at the time of his appointment. “It is a tremendous opportunity to make an impact on future NCAA legislation to ensure we continue to provide the best possible service to the student-athlete.” Spear’s ties with athletics are life-long. He was a standout high school athlete in his native Butte, Mont., before moving on to letter four times at the University of Great Falls. Next was a two-year professional basketball career with the Montana Golden Nuggets, at the time coached by George Karl. Go He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Great Falls in 1980 and his MBA from the University of Montan tana in 1983. He accepted a position as an internal auditor with the University of Idaho in 1989. While working at Idaho, he also pur pursued his doctorate in education, which he completed in 1993. Prior to his appointment as director of athletics in 2003, Spear was the interim assistant financial vice president. He also spent tim time at Idaho as the Assistant Vice President for Outreach in the Col College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and in grants contracts. He and his wife, Sandy, have one daughter, Morgan – a junior at IIdaho.
29