Scott Strickland: UF Athletic Director

Scott Strickland succeeded Jeremy Foley as the athletic director of the University of Florida in 2016. Prior to Strickland’s arrival in Gainesville, he served in the same role for six years at SEC opponent Mississippi State. Strickland is known for his modern, holistic approach to athletics, emphasizing the improvement of athletic facilities and the well-being of student-athletes. Early in his tenure, he prioritized mental health resources by creating initiatives that support student-athletes beyond just their athletic performance.

Under Strickland’s leadership, the university has seen the construction of new facilities, including a $65 million standalone football facility that opened in 2022, aimed at enhancing the football program’s recruiting and training capabilities. Some college football analysts, including legendary former Alabama coach Nick Saban, have said that the improvement of facilities may be too little, too late, for Florida to return to the elite status it enjoyed from the 80’s through the early 2000’s. Strickland has successfully maintained the competitive edge of UF sports, with the university continuing to excel across various programs.

During Strickland’s era, the women’s gymnastics and men’s track and field teams have won national championships, while other sports, such as baseball, have remained highly competitive on the national stage. Strickland has emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture, building on the foundation laid by Foley, but has yet to enjoy as much on-field success stories. Foley’s legacy is built on competitive success and foundational investments that transformed UF into a top-tier athletic program.