In the aftermath of Thursday’s announcement naming Beth Goetz as the University of Iowa’s permanent athletics director, Hawkeyes the response from Iowa coaches and key stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive, with unanimous praise for Goetz’s leadership. Below are their remarks, all sourced from prepared statements unless otherwise specified.
Lisa Bluder, Head Women’s Basketball Coach: “President Wilson hit a home run with the choice of Beth Goetz to lead our Department of Athletics. Beth is a unifying leader who communicates and listens with great effectiveness.”
Kirk Ferentz, Head Football Coach: “Beth has shown a tremendous dedication to the university and a passion for our student-athletes. She has a vision that is respectful of the traditions of our athletics programs while embracing opportunities in the rapidly changing college sports landscape.”
Fran McCaffery, Head Men’s Basketball Coach: “Beth has been a tremendous asset to the university… I am thrilled she will continue to lead the Iowa Department of Athletics.”
Brad Heinrichs, CEO of Swarm Collective: “Beth comes to a lot of our tailgates before football games… I don’t have a bad thing to say about Beth.”
Clarissa Chun, Head Women’s Wrestling Coach: “There is no better person to lead Iowa Athletics. Beth brings great energy and shows her support to all programs.”
Tom Brands, Head Men’s Wrestling Coach: “Beth Goetz earned her way into the business by not making it about business. She is about the right things. The Hawks got the best.”
Lisa Cellucci, Head Field Hockey Coach: “Beth is absolutely one of the best administrators I have had the opportunity to work with… It will be an absolute honor to work for her.”
Jim Barnes, Head Volleyball Coach: “Beth has the respect of every coach in the department because she is a strong leader, a thoughtful listener, and a difference maker that gets things done.”
Joey Woody, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country: “Beth has shown great leadership and an unwavering commitment and support of our track and field and XC athletes and staff.”
Sasha Schmid, Head Tennis Coach: “In Beth Goetz, we have the transformational leader Iowa Athletics needs to succeed and thrive at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.”
Rick Heller, Head Baseball Coach: “Beth is a talented and experienced administrator with strong leadership skills… I am happy and excited for Beth.”
Josh Schamberger, President of Think Iowa City and the Iowa City Sports Commission: “Her passion and commitment to work and the community is infectious.”
Tyler Stith, Head Men’s Golf Coach: “Beth is an excellent leader and a perfect fit for the University of Iowa… It is a great day for Hawkeye student-athletes, staff, and fans.”
Megan Menzel, Head Women’s Golf Coach: “The women’s golf team is excited to have her as our leader. Go Hawks!”
Larissa Libby, Head Gymnastics Coach: “Her role as one of very few female Directors of Athletics at the Division I level is pivotal.”
Jeff Garbutt, Head Rowing Coach: “I am thrilled to have Beth leading us into the future. She is a passionate, dedicated and inspirational leader.”
Dave DiIanni, Head Soccer Coach: “Beth is a great leader, a leader who empowers people to be confident, forward-thinking, and think outside of the box.”
Renee Gillispie, Head Softball Coach: “Beth has shown great leadership and vision this past year… We look forward to having her full-time to help navigate a new era for Iowa Athletics.”
Joe Conklin, Iowa Athletics Development Director and Iowa Football Alum: “Beth Goetz is the exact right leader to meet this critical moment for the Iowa Hawkeyes and collegiate athletics.”
Nicole Grosland, Associate Engineering Dean and Chair of Search Committee: “Beth emerged as a finalist with a strong vision to lead the department at this crucial time.”
Beth Goetz’s Own Statement: “I am truly honored and humbled to lead Iowa’s storied athletics program… It is a privilege to serve our campus and our passionate Hawkeyes supporters.”
Hawkeyes Welcome Beth Goetz as Permanent AD: Coaches and Stakeholders Applaud the Move
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