Sports

UMaine AD signs two-year extension

James signed through 2011-2012

Posted on Nov. 12, 2009, at 1:41 a.m.

University of Maine athletic director Blake James signed a two-year contract extension through the 2011-2012 athletic year.

James was named the UMaine AD in May of 2006 following a national search. He served in an interim role for 10 months prior to being hired after former AD Patrick Nero left. James has been at UMaine since 2003, first serving as senior associate athletic director.

“I appreciate President Kennedy’s support and look forward to continuing to work with our coaches, staff and student-athletes to achieve success athletically, academically and in the community,” James said in a press release. “This extension is a reflection of all the outstanding people that work within our department and university. I am honored to be able to continue to serve our great university and look forward to confronting the challenges ahead.”

During James’ tenure at UMaine, Black Bear student-athletes won the 2007 America East Academic Cup Award, given annually to the institution with the highest overall grade point average among students participating in conference sports.

In addition, there have been several upgrades to facilities. Morse Field, Mahaney Diamond and the field hockey complex all have upgraded to a FieldTurf surface.

James has previous administrative experience at the University of Miami, the University of Nebraska and Providence College.

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