Georgia’s hire of Josh Brooks, youngest Power 5 AD, proves pivotal as he excels in his fifth year, elevating the athletics program to new heights under strong leadership.

ATHENS — When the University of Georgia president Jere Morehead hired Josh Brooks as the athletic director, he made a bold choice. At the time, Brooks was the youngest athletic director among Power 5 programs — a position often reserved for seasoned veterans with decades of experience. Yet, this move has proven pivotal, as Brooks has rapidly transformed Georgia Athletics in just five years, elevating the program to new heights across multiple sports and organizational levels.

Now in his fifth year leading the Bulldogs’ athletic department, Brooks’ tenure is defined by vision, innovation, and a commitment to excellence that has resonated throughout Athens and the wider college sports community. As Georgia continues to establish itself as a national powerhouse, Brooks’ influence has been a key driver behind the program’s rise.

From Young Hire to Proven Leader

When Brooks was hired, some questioned whether such a young and relatively unproven administrator could handle the enormous pressures and responsibilities of running an athletics department at a major Southeastern Conference (SEC) school. The challenge was clear: oversee a complex operation that includes dozens of varsity teams, tens of millions in budgets, multiple stadiums and facilities, and the high expectations of Bulldog fans who demand excellence.

Brooks’ background helped prepare him well for the role. A Georgia alumnus, he had spent years working within the athletic department in various roles, gaining hands-on experience in compliance, administration, and fundraising. This deep institutional knowledge, combined with a fresh and ambitious outlook, positioned him well to lead.

Within his first year, Brooks wasted no time setting ambitious goals: enhancing competitive success, improving facilities, growing revenue, and deepening community engagement. His transparent and communicative leadership style earned him respect across the campus and among fans.

Driving Competitive Excellence Across the Board

Under Brooks’ leadership, Georgia Athletics has seen impressive competitive achievements across multiple sports:

• Football: The Bulldogs’ football program has solidified its status as a national contender, winning SEC titles and competing for national championships. Brooks supported head coach Kirby Smart with resources to build one of the most talented rosters in the country, ensuring Georgia remains a perennial powerhouse.
• Basketball: Both men’s and women’s basketball programs have improved, attracting top recruits and advancing in postseason tournaments. Enhanced facilities and increased support for coaching staffs have been part of Brooks’ vision to grow basketball’s footprint at Georgia.
• Olympic Sports: Brooks has championed investment in Olympic sports like gymnastics, track and field, and swimming, where Georgia has a proud tradition. Funding, scholarship support, and upgraded training facilities have helped teams reach new competitive heights.

These successes reflect a broader philosophy: supporting all student-athletes to excel academically and athletically, not just focusing on marquee programs.

Facilities Upgrades and Investments

Brooks understands that top-tier facilities are crucial for recruiting elite athletes and providing an optimal environment for success. Since his arrival, he has spearheaded several major projects, including:

• Enhancements to Sanford Stadium: Beyond routine upgrades, Brooks has overseen improvements to seating, video boards, and fan amenities, elevating the game-day experience.
• New training centers: Cutting-edge training and recovery facilities for football, basketball, and Olympic sports have been developed, ensuring athletes have access to world-class resources.
• Academic and wellness centers: Brooks has prioritized holistic support by investing in spaces that promote athlete academic success and mental health.

These investments have helped Georgia compete with other elite programs in facilities, an important factor in recruiting battles.

Revenue Growth and Financial Stability

Brooks’ tenure has also been marked by strong financial stewardship. Through innovative marketing, enhanced sponsorships, and diversified revenue streams, Georgia Athletics has seen healthy growth in revenue, even amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

One notable initiative is the exploration of new uses for Sanford Stadium, such as hosting concerts and other events, to generate additional income outside football season. Brooks’ willingness to think creatively about revenue sources has positioned Georgia to maintain financial stability and fund athletic priorities sustainably.

Commitment to Student-Athlete Experience

Brooks has emphasized the importance of supporting the whole student-athlete. His administration focuses on:

• Academic support: Ensuring athletes succeed in the classroom with tutoring, advising, and flexible scheduling.
• Mental health resources: Expanding counseling and wellness programs tailored to the unique pressures athletes face.
• Career development: Creating internship, networking, and career preparation opportunities to prepare athletes for life after sports.

This student-first approach has boosted Georgia’s reputation as a program that cares deeply about athlete well-being.

Strong Community and Alumni Engagement

Brooks’ leadership extends beyond the field and gym. He has prioritized deepening connections with Georgia’s vast alumni network and the Athens community. Initiatives under his guidance include:

• Enhanced alumni outreach: Engaging former athletes and supporters through events, communications, and giving opportunities.
• Community service programs: Encouraging athletes to participate in local service projects, strengthening ties between the university and Athens.
• Fan engagement: Creating more interactive and memorable experiences for fans, from tailgating to digital platforms.

These efforts have helped build a vibrant and loyal Bulldog community that supports Georgia Athletics year-round.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Josh Brooks and Georgia Athletics?

As Brooks enters his sixth year, the outlook for Georgia Athletics remains bright. Key priorities moving forward include:

• Sustaining competitive success: Maintaining top-tier programs across sports and continuing to attract elite coaching and talent.
• Expanding facilities: Continuing to invest in infrastructure that supports athlete development and fan experience.
• Innovating revenue streams: Further exploring creative opportunities like concerts, digital content, and partnerships to support growth.
• Championing diversity and inclusion: Ensuring Georgia Athletics remains a welcoming and equitable environment for all athletes and staff.

Brooks’ leadership style—marked by vision, integrity, and collaboration—will be essential in meeting these goals.

Josh Brooks’ hire as Georgia’s athletic director was a pivotal moment for the program. From the youngest Power 5 AD to a proven and respected leader, Brooks has transformed Georgia Athletics in just five years. His strategic investments, competitive successes, commitment to student-athletes, and innovative revenue efforts have elevated the Bulldogs’ athletic department to new heights.

As Georgia continues to pursue excellence on and off the field, Brooks’ leadership will remain a cornerstone of the program’s success. Bulldog fans and the college sports world alike will be watching closely as Josh Brooks charts the next chapter in Georgia Athletics’ storied legacy.

If you’d like, I can help you with related articles such as profiles on key hires Brooks has made, interviews with coaches or athletes on his impact, or a deep dive into specific facility projects. Just let me know!