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CSU Fires Athletic Director Kowalczyk, Hires Replacement Jack Graham

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - Colorado State University has fired Athletic Director Paul Kowalczyk and hired Jack Graham as his replacement.

The announcement was made at early Thursday afternoon on the university's campus in Fort Collins.

Kowalczyk, 53, signed a five year contract last year. He had a key role in upgrading some of the Rams athletic teams' training facilities.

Graham, 59, is a Boulder County resident and father of 3. He played quarterback for the CSU Rams in 1973 and 1974. He sold a company he founded called ICAT Managers last year and remains on their board of directors.

"In Jack Graham, we have the perfect combination of dedicated Ram fan, stand-out athlete and experienced business leader with the skills and business acumen to energize and advance our overall athletics program," CSU President Tony Frank said in a prepared statement. "I am excited about the enthusiasm he will generate among our students, coaches, alumni, donors and fans. He brings high standards, high expectations and a passion for winning that is infectious."

Steve Kowalczyk
Paul Kowalczyk (credit: CBS)

During his tenure Kowalczyk fired football coach Sonny Lubick and hired Steve Fairchild to replace him.

He also hired men's basketball coach Tim Miles.

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