Fordham has narrowed its search for a new athletic director to a field of Elite Eight candidates. One problem: On first glance, it’s not very elite.
The Post has learned that six candidates will be interviewed in the coming days. Charlie Elwood, who has been running the department since Frank McLaughlin was promoted to a fundraising position in late May, is on campus. And Kansas special assistant to the athletics director Larry Keating has already had conversations with Jeff Gray, the senior vice president in charge of student affairs.
The list, which has a heavy academic flavor based on the institutions of the candidates, contains just one woman and one candidate of color.
Elite candidates such as Villanova senior associate AD for external operations Bob Steitz and Marquette deputy athletic director Mike Broeker could get consideration, but as of now are not on the candidate list.
Here’s a closer look at the seven candidates:
Allison Rich, Forida State senior associate athletics director: Senior woman administrator for the Seminoles is also a lawyer with a doctorate degree.
David O’Brien, O’Brien Sports Marketing managing partner: Outside-the-box choice has been an athletic director at Long Beach State, Temple and Northeastern.
Richard Regan, Holy Cross athletic director: Growing up in the business, his father Richie was longtime coach and AD at Seton Hall.
Brad Hurlbut, Northwestern senior associate athletic director of operations: Has been at Big Ten school with best academic reputation for last 17 years.
Duane Bailey, Seton Hall deputy director of athletics: Understands responsibility of being at a Catholic school and has also worked for NFL.
Adam Brick, George Mason senior associate athletic director: Has seen George Mason grow into a mid-major power in basketball during his tenure.
Larry Keating, Kansas special assistant to the athletics director: Former MAAC assistant commissioner has experience working with high major basketball program.
Charlie Elwood, Fordham director of athletic administration: Has overseen the athletic department after Frank McLaughlin’s promotion to new role.
It was unclear if other possibilities will be brought in over the coming weeks. Fordham wants to have an athletic director in place this fall.
— Additional reporting by Marc Raimondi