Hiegert Deserved Better From CSUN

The Athletic Assn. Board of Directors of California State University, Northridge would like to express our position on the requested resignation and reassignment of Director of Athletics Bob Hiegert.

We have deep regrets that Bob will not be allowed to continue his leadership of the athletic program. We also regret the fact that this action took place in such a public and insensitive manner. Bob has given his heart and soul to Matador athletics since his student-athlete days in the late ‘50s and early ‘60s, and he certainly deserves better treatment.

During the 1980s, Cal State Northridge had the most successful Division II athletic program in the nation, in major part due to Bob’s insight, hard work and leadership. In spite of a number of almost overwhelming setbacks, he has initiated a successful transition to Division I. Even in the early stages of this transition, a number of major athletic powers have been forced to take notice of the fact that we are on our way up.

Bob is not the kind of person who demands a great deal of personal recognition for his efforts. Instead, he works diligently and, it now appears, thanklessly behind the scenes to get the job done. Although Bob has not received the recognition that he deserves, he has certainly commanded the respect and admiration of athletes, coaches, staff, community members, donors and his peers in athletic departments across the country. His departure is a major loss to CSUN.

Bob is leaving the position with a record of which he can be very proud, as we are. In spite of his (and our) deep and justified disappointment, we know that he will quickly rebound and move forward successfully with the tremendous dignity that has always characterized him. Bob is a winner in every sense of the word, and we will miss his leadership.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CSUN Athletic Assn.