Villanova University is on the verge of naming a new athletic director, and according to inside sources, the leading candidate is none other than Eric Roedl, the current deputy AD and chief operating officer at the University of Oregon. The anticipated hire comes at a pivotal moment for Villanova athletics, particularly its renowned men’s basketball program, which has struggled in recent years following the retirement of Hall of Fame coach Jay Wright.
A Villanova Homecoming for Roedl
For Roedl, taking the reins at Villanova would mark a return to his alma mater. The former tennis team co-captain graduated from the university before embarking on a career in athletic administration that eventually led him to Oregon in 2012. During his tenure in Eugene, Roedl played an instrumental role in the Ducks’ athletic success, including oversight of the perennially competitive basketball program and the powerhouse football team.
Key Contributions at Oregon
Roedl’s impact at Oregon extended well beyond the playing fields and courts. He was heavily involved in the search that brought Dan Lanning from Georgia to take over as head football coach and played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in orchestrating the university’s monumental move to the Big Ten Conference. Additionally, Roedl leveraged his time at Oregon to cultivate strong relationships with Nike, a valuable asset for any athletic department.
Eric’s diverse skill set and deep understanding of collegiate athletics make him an ideal fit for Villanova. His experience at Oregon, coupled with his existing ties to Villanova and the region, position him for success in this new role.
– A source close to the hiring process
Navigating the Post-Wright Era
One of Roedl’s most pressing challenges will be charting a course for Villanova basketball in the wake of Jay Wright’s retirement. Under Wright’s guidance, the Wildcats captured two national titles (2016 and 2018) and established themselves as a perennial powerhouse. However, since Wright’s successor, Kyle Neptune, took over in 2022, the program has struggled to maintain its elite status, compiling a 37-36 record over three seasons.
Insiders suggest that one of Roedl’s first major decisions will be determining Neptune’s future at Villanova. The new athletic director’s basketball acumen, honed during his time overseeing Oregon’s program, will be put to the test as he assesses whether Neptune is the right person to lead the Wildcats back to national prominence.
A Well-Rounded Resume
Beyond his contributions to Oregon’s basketball and football success, Roedl brings a wealth of experience in various aspects of athletic administration:
- Business and financial operations oversight
- Strategic and financial planning
- Human resources management
- Contract negotiations and management
- Information technology oversight
- Equipment operations supervision
This diverse skill set, coupled with his prior experience at Temple University, where he spent eight years in athletic administration roles, makes Roedl a well-rounded candidate to guide Villanova athletics into a new era.
A New Chapter for Villanova Athletics
As Villanova prepares to formally announce Eric Roedl as its new athletic director, the university community eagerly anticipates the fresh perspective and leadership he will bring to the department. With his unique blend of local ties, high-level experience, and demonstrated success at Oregon, Roedl appears poised to help the Wildcats navigate the challenges that lie ahead and write the next chapter in the storied history of Villanova athletics.
