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Villanova’s new AD may introduce a more focused financial approach to men’s basketball


Eric Roedl was introduced as Villanova’s new athletic director by university president Rev. Peter Donohue on Tuesday. Roedl previously served as the deputy AD at the University of Oregon, overseeing several key sports programs with a $145 million budget. With Villanova’s athletic department operating expenses at around $59 million, Roedl faces a financial gap but high expectations, especially in men’s basketball, the revenue-driver for the program. Roedl’s focus will be on evaluating programs and coaches based on various factors such as academic performance, culture, recruiting trajectory, results, community engagement, ticket sales, and fundraising.

Despite Villanova’s recent struggles in men’s basketball under head coach Kyle Neptune, Roedl praised Neptune and women’s coach Denise Dillon as outstanding leaders. However, Roedl emphasized the importance of coaches connecting with student-athletes, especially in today’s increasingly transactional and pressure-filled college athletics landscape. He acknowledged the challenges facing programs and the need for sustainable, lasting cultures built on strong connections between coaches and players.

Neptune, who has faced criticism for Villanova’s performance and declining status within the Big East, sat in the front row during Roedl’s introduction, showing the urgency of the situation. While Roedl may not have the financial resources he had at Oregon, he is expected to bring a bottom-line approach back to Villanova to elevate the men’s basketball program. As an alum of Villanova, Roedl’s experience in a larger institution like Oregon has prepared him for the challenges of leading a successful collegiate athletic program.

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Photo credit www.inquirer.com

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