AU names Brocato as interim athletic director after Bryant retirement

By Chris Rickerson | Sports editor

After Clint Bryant announced his retirement last month, Augusta University President Brooks Keel has now named Coach Melissa Brocato as the Jaguars’ interim athletic director.

“I am excited for the opportunity and thankful that Dr. Keel has confidence to help lead in this transition time,” Brocato said.

Bryant is set to retire on June 30, and Brocato will then step in as the interim AD on July 1.

Brocato has been the Jaguars’ softball coach since 1998 and is currently assistant athletic director for internal affairs.

Despite the Jaguars’ softball team struggling in recent years, she has 561 wins at AU and is the winningest coach in the program’s history.

Brocato spoke on her experience in administration and if she expected to be an AD in her career.

“I’ve been in administration in varying roles,” she said. “I was the compliance coordinator when I first got here and have had other vary roles. Bryant really encouraged me years ago saying, ‘Administration would be a great route for you; you have some talent there,’ so I figured it could come one day.”

While Brocato does have experience and may look to work in administration in the future, she still wants to continue coaching.

The university will continue to search for a permanent athletic director.  Brocato will begin her 25th season as the Jaguars’ softball coach in 2022-23.

Note: At the top of the page, Melissa Brocato, second from left, gives instruction to her Jaguar softball players. (photo by Chris Rickerson)

Contact Chris Rickerson at crickerson@augusta.edu.