American Conference Commissioner Mike Aresco Announces Retirement

Conference’s only commissioner in the league’s 11-year history, has announced his plans to retire at the end of the 2023-24 academic year

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Huge loss for the conference. Going to be tough to find a replacement with his skill set and ability.

Terrible news IMHO!

Some quotes on the retirement of American Athletic Conference Commissioner Mike Aresco.

Michael Fitts, President, Tulane University

Mike has done a truly outstanding job in shepherding the American Athletic Conference through a rapidly changing national landscape in college athletics. We all are in his debt. The conference would not be what it is without him. Mike is a thoughtful and strategic thinker and a warm gregarious human being; we will miss him dearly.

Burke Magnus, President, Content, ESPN

Mike has been a great leader, partner and friend for almost 30 years.  His accomplishments in both media and intercollegiate athletics speak to his keen intellect, vision, relationships and courage. All of ESPN wishes Mike and Sharon the best in their next adventure.

Sean McManus, Chairman, CBS Sports

Mike was a trusted colleague at CBS Sports and played an integral role in the growth of college sports at our network. From helping to further March Madness into a national treasure and leading our groundbreaking arrangement with the NCAA in 1999 and later our historic joint venture with Turner Sports, to establishing SEC football as a national television package, his vision was clear and his legacy is secure. He has also been a great partner at the AAC. Most important, Mike is a man of integrity, humility and kindness and the most loyal friend you could ever have.

Jim Nantz, Sportscaster and Anchor, CBS Sports

In the stormy seas of college athletics, Mike was a steady hand who gave the American Athletic Conference great leadership and vision. I salute my former CBS colleague for a job exceedingly well done

Tony Petitti, Commissioner, Big Ten Conference

After decades at ESPN, CBS Sports and clearly as commissioner at The American, Mike has contributed leadership with deep and lasting impact on college sports and student athletes.