As new Texas A&M athletic director Scott Woodward prepares to take over the $120 million enterprise of Aggies athletics on Feb. 1, he arrives with the men's basketball program on the rise and coach Kevin Sumlin's all-important football program in a rut in the SEC West.
The new boss, who left the same role at the University of Washington, hit all the right notes at his formal introduction this month, beyond the well-placed "howdy" and "gig 'em." He praised the richness of traditions at a school that loves its Aggie rings, Corps of Cadets and Midnight Yell.
But as the real work begins in Aggieland, those who have worked closely with Woodward believe his unique background, Louisiana roots, adaptability and relationship with A&M President Michael Young, also formerly of the University of Washington, make him the right choice to lead A&M as it heads toward its fifth full year as a member of the Southeastern Conference.