Another tragic news hit the buckeyes as another top power house player anounced his retirement due to a serious…..
Gene Smith Will Step Down
His announcement coincides with a turbulent period for Ohio State universities. Ohio State won the Director’s Standing in the Big Ten athletics program eight times while Gene Smith was their head coach. By 2024, the Big Ten will consist of 18 teams.
Gene Smith Describes the Causes
Gene Smith gave an explanation of his decision to step down in 2024, stating that July of that year would be a good time to welcome in the new leadership and continue advancing the great athletics tradition.
Sportsmen Respond to Gene Smith’s Declaration
𝐎𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞 ‼
The Ohio State University’s athletic director, Gene Smith, will retire in July 2024.
I appreciate you overseeing one of the biggest and most prosperous sports programs in the nation 🌰 #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/azSM5UrJlg
Ohio State Football responded to Gene Smith’s retirement announcement with a tweet that said, “Thank you for leading one of the largest and most successful athletic programs in the country.”
–Ohio State Athletics
As of July 1, 2024, no more ties are required 👔@OSU_AD
The impact Gene Smith has had on Ohio State and the VolleyBucks is indescribable. I’m grateful to spend one more season in the Covelli stands with him and Shelia. We can’t wait for your upcoming! tweet.com/N12fmiD2kH
“Words cannot express the immense value that Gene Smith has had for Ohio State University and the VolleyBucks,” stated Ohio State Women’s Volleyball in a tweet. I’m grateful to spend one more season in the Covelli stands with him and Shelia. We can’t wait for your next project!”
– Women’s Volleyball at Ohio State
Who Will Replace Gene Smith?
In an interview with the media, Gene Smith stated that the task of selecting his replacement will fall to the incoming Ohio State president. Gene Smith served as the sports director for the states of Arizona, Iowa, and Eastern Michigan prior to taking over Ohio.
The Hardest Obstacle Gene Smith Encountered
When discussing his hardest challenge to date, the sports director said that 2011 was a terrible year. Five players were suspended at the time for allegedly receiving unfair benefits from a tattoo parlor and selling memorabilia.