Iowa AD Gary Barta releases heartfelt statement announcing retirement after 17 years with Hawkeyes

Iowa athletic director Gary Barta has released a statement with the news that he will retire Aug. 1.

“It has been an absolute privilege and honor to serve in this role the past 17 years. I’m humbled to have worked beside and on behalf of so many student-athletes, coaches, staff, donors, fans, and community leaders over the past two decades. The success enjoyed by our student-athletes and coaches during my entire tenure, and especially the past several years, has been impressive and record breaking on so many levels,” Barta said in his statement.

The 59-year-old Barta was first hired by the Hawkeyes in 2006. He had been the athletic director at Wyoming the three years prior to that.

His 17-year run made him one of the longest serving ADs in the country.

Iowa have won four NCAA team titles and 27 Big Ten team titles during his tenure.

“My wife, Connie, and I were blessed to be able to raise our two kids (Luke and Madi) in this wonderful community. The four of us will be Hawkeyes for life. I’ve made incredible friendships within the athletic department, across campus, throughout the greater Iowa City community, and across the State,” Barta said. “This decision didn’t come suddenly, nor did it come without significant thought, discussion, and prayer. As I’ve reflected, I came to the conclusion there’s never a good time to step away…because there’s always more to be done. That said, I’m confident this is the right time for me and for my family.”

His is probably most well-known around the country for his time as the chair of the College Football Playoff Selection Committee. He served on the committee from 2019-2021.

One of his biggest honors was winning the 2015-16 National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics/Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year.

“Again, I’m incredibly grateful to have served in this role,” Barta said. “I look forward to wherever the next phase in my journey takes me.”