New Michigan State athletic director making changes on Day 1

On3 imageby:James Fletcher III09/02/21

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New Michigan State athletic director Alan Haller said Thursday he will unveil a restructured plan for the athletics department next week, according to the Associated Press. Among the idea he shared with reporters was a plan to play football and basketball games on the same day that other sports hold home games, so fans have access to multiple events.

Haller said the future fan-engagement experience is inspired by Walt Disney World’s Park Hopper option and former Michigan State basketball player Draymond Green, who made it a goal to attend a home game for each team on campus during his senior season.

Michigan State plans to formally introduce Alan Haller as the athletic director on Tuesday, according to the AP. During his introductory press conference, he will make further announcements about budget realignment and other possible changes.

Hiring Alan Haller

Perhaps no candidate knew the ins and outs of the Michigan State athletic department like Alan Haller. He was a member of the Spartans football team, from 1988-1991.

The former Spartans defensive back then moved on the the National Football League, where he played from 1992-1995. Afterwards, he returned to Michigan State as a police officer in 1997.

For 13 years, Haller was a member of the Michigan State Police Department – rising through the ranks on his way to lieutenant. Afterwards, he joined the athletic department as an associate athletic director.

Haller continued to rise up the ranks, promoted to senior associate athletic director in 2015 and then adding chief of staff to his title in 2017. Fast forward, Haller is rising up once again.

“MSU named Haller its 20th athletic director during a special Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday,” wrote Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press. “Haller, 50, beat out current Auburn athletic director Allen Greene following interviews over the weekend, sources told the Free Press on Monday, after university president Samuel Stanley commissioned a national search to replace Bill Beekman.”

Haller’s hiring comes just two days prior to the Spartans’ kicking off their season against Northwestern. Head football coach Mel Tucker provided his initial thoughts on the hire.

“Alan has tremendous leadership qualities and has had a way of bringing people together over the years,” said Tucker. “He has the vision and progressive mindset that I admire in a leader. The Spartan family is strong and ready to build a solid foundation towards a better future.”