AU names Clayton State's Erlacher as new director of athletics

Ryan Erlacher will begin his new position at Augusta University as athletic director in the coming weeks.(photo courtesy of Kevin Liles)

By Rakiyah Lenon | Editor in chief

Augusta University announced that Ryan Erlacher of Clayton State University will serve as its third athletic director beginning Oct. 17.

Eager to start his new position as athletic director, Erlacher said, “Get ready. I can’t wait to share some of ideas I have.”

With still some time to go before his first official day, Erlacher said he is reaching out to get to know faculty and thinking of ways to help AU athletics as director. He said he aims to continue supporting the coaches and student-athletes, ensuring they have what they need to be successful.

“We have a very bright future ahead of us for Augusta athletics,” he said.

Until his arrival at Augusta, Erlacher said he has been working to ensure the transition is carried out smoothly at Clayton.

“They’ve been wonderful to me,” he said. “We have an amazing staff here and I want to make sure those guys are taken care of on my way out.”

Originally from Florida, Erlacher said he grew up around sports and later moved into administrative work at several institutions. He has worked at Flagler College, Newman University, Northwood University, Florida State University and Stetson University prior to his role as director of athletics at Clayton.

“I started out my career coaching basketball and then fell into administration and never looked back,” he said. “I love what I do.”

He added that AU for him is “a great fit, personally and professionally.”

A married father of two, Erlacher said his family is important to him. A love for sports runs fluently in his family, particularly among his kids.

“They love to be around sports,” he said. “They’re very anxious and excited to join Augusta and cheer on teams and be a part of the fan base.”

Erlacher said he also hopes to bring excitement and enthusiasm to AU’s athletic programs.

“I’m big on building culture and maximizing our potential,” he said. “We need our students out there supporting their fellow student-athletes.”  

AU softball coach Melissa Brocato, who was named interim athletic director following Clint Bryant’s retirement after 34 years in the role, said there is much curiosity and excitement surrounding new hires, especially for a position like athletic director.

“I think the community can count on Ryan to return that same genuine excitement and curiosity,” she said.

As for the future of AU’s athletic programs, Brocato said she hopes they continue to grow with Erlacher.

“We have a wonderful history of success, and I have no doubt we’ll be able to continue to build on that under Ryan’s leadership,” she said. “I believe Ryan will capitalize on those opportunities.”

Contact Rakiyah Lenon at rlenon@augusta.edu.