Hunsaker steps in for Aggies

LOGAN — Fred H. Hunsaker, former vice president of Administrative Services, was less than two months into his retirement who Utah State President Kemit L. Hall came calling for his services.

Hunsaker, 64, was named Thursday at the interim athletic director, replacing Rance Pugmire, who was suspended for 60 days in connection with his arrest earlier in the week on the suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

"This is not what I had in mind for retirement," Hunsaker said Thursday night. "I'm willing to come back and fill this role for a short period of time."

Hunsaker takes over the position at a crucial time. The Aggies are moving to the WAC in two years; the men's basketball team is contending for the Big West Conference championship, and the women's basketball team is competing for the first time in 17 seasons.

"I see the role as a support role — support of the existing staff and coaches. Not to come in and try to change programs and tell them how to do (their jobs)," Hunsaker said. "They are professionals."

Hunsaker will jump right into action with a meeting this morning to bring him up to speed on the planned improvements for the university's football stadium.

He said the appointment as the interim athletic director will be for no longer than 60 days, but it could be less.

"One of the things I can offer is to relieve the staff of trying to absorb some of the duties Rance would normally perform."

During part of his 12 years as the vice president of Administrative Services, the athletic department answered to him, so he is well aware of the changes that are currently under way.

"I will try to hold everything together," Hunsaker said.