BYU Athletics Director Tom Holmoe is set to retire this summer, bringing an end to a remarkable two-decade tenure that has left an undeniable mark on Cougar sports. The university made the official announcement on Tuesday, stating that Holmoe’s retirement will be effective at the close of the 2024-25 athletic season.
For 20 years, Holmoe has been the driving force behind BYU athletics, shaping its trajectory with a mix of bold decisions, strategic moves, and a relentless passion for excellence. His leadership has spanned eras of immense change, guiding the Cougars through a historic transition into the Big 12 Conference and adapting the program to the rapidly evolving landscape of college sports, including the introduction of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era.
A Legacy of Transformational Leadership
Holmoe first stepped into his role as BYU’s athletic director in 2005, taking the reins of a program with a proud history but facing new challenges. Under his leadership, the university’s football program navigated a decade of independence before securing a coveted spot in the Big 12, a move that solidified BYU’s standing in the world of collegiate athletics.
His impact wasn’t limited to football. Holmoe made significant coaching hires that shaped the future of BYU sports, including bringing in cross-country coach Diljeet Taylor—making history as the school’s first non-Latter-day Saint head coach in at least 50 years. He also played a pivotal role in hiring Amber Whiting and Kevin Young to lead the men’s and women’s basketball programs, demonstrating his commitment to finding top-tier coaching talent to elevate BYU’s competitiveness.
Former BYU basketball star Jimmer Fredette praised Holmoe’s bold approach, particularly in securing Kevin Young from the NBA. “When the BYU job opened up … Tom wanted to go and find the best candidates, and I think they did that. Finding Kevin Young and luring him in, to be able to come to BYU, was a pretty great effort,” Fredette noted.
Building a Championship Culture
One of the most defining aspects of Holmoe’s tenure has been his ability to foster a culture of success. Since taking over, BYU athletics has won four national championships and an astonishing 133 conference regular-season and postseason championships. This consistent level of achievement is a testament to the high standards he set for the program.
Beyond wins and losses, Holmoe’s vision extended to upgrading facilities and ensuring BYU athletes had access to top-tier resources. The university saw multiple renovations to LaVell Edwards Stadium, providing an enhanced experience for both athletes and fans. In 2016, the Marriott Center Annex—a state-of-the-art, 38,000-square-foot practice facility—was added, further cementing BYU’s reputation for having elite athletic infrastructure.
Former BYU basketball coach Mark Pope highlighted the significance of these upgrades, stating, “We’re walking into the Big 12 with the biggest arena and with some of the finest facilities.” These investments have positioned BYU athletics to remain competitive on a national level for years to come.
From the Gridiron to the Sidelines
Holmoe’s connection to BYU runs deep. Before stepping into an administrative role, he was a standout defensive back for the Cougars from 1978-82. His playing career continued in the NFL, where he enjoyed tremendous success, winning three Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers.
Following his retirement from professional football, Holmoe transitioned into coaching in 1990, beginning as a graduate assistant at BYU. His coaching journey took him to Stanford, the NFL, and the University of California, Berkeley, before he ultimately returned to his alma mater as associate athletic director in 2001. Just a few years later, he took the helm as BYU’s athletic director, a role he would hold for two decades.
A Leader Who Poured His Heart Into BYU
At 64 years old, Holmoe has never been one to shy away from the demands of his job. Reflecting on his energy and passion for the role last July, he said, “It takes a lot of energy to do what we do in athletic administration as ADs. It is full tilt trying to get things done, trying to be good and present the brand. I think that is my measuring stick [for retirement]—if I can go hard and fast and bring a ton of energy. If I’m feeling like I’m responsive to student-athletes, then I can do it.”
That level of dedication has been evident throughout his tenure. Even in his final year, he continues to push forward with ambitious projects, including the recently announced hitting facility for the baseball and softball teams at Miller Park. His drive to leave BYU in a stronger position than he found it speaks volumes about his leadership and commitment.
The Future of BYU Athletics
As Holmoe prepares to step away, BYU now faces the challenge of finding a successor who can build upon his legacy. The foundation he has laid—whether through strategic conference moves, major facility investments, or the cultivation of a winning culture—will undoubtedly help guide the program’s next chapter.
For Cougar fans, Holmoe’s impact will be remembered not just for the championships and conference affiliations but for the unwavering passion and dedication he brought to BYU athletics. His leadership helped elevate the program to new heights, ensuring that the Cougars remain a formidable force in collegiate sports for years to come.
While his retirement marks the end of an era, the legacy he leaves behind will continue to shape the future of BYU athletics long after he steps away from the director’s chair.
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