Nathan Pine is out as director of athletics at Air Force, according to an official announcement from the school on Friday. The Department of the Air Force notified the Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation (AFAAC) that Pine’s service in that role was “no longer accepted.” Nancy Hixson will step in on an interim basis.
Why Was the Athletic Director Removed?
The Air Force Academy provided no further explanation for the change. While the school confirmed the decision came from the Department of the Air Force, officials have not disclosed the reasoning behind the move. Pine remains under contract as an employee of the AFAAC, with his agreement scheduled to run through 2028 following an extension in 2023.
How Does This Impact Air Force Athletics?
The transition arrives during a period of personnel turnover within the athletic department. In March, Pine announced the hiring of men’s head basketball coach Joe Crispin. Crispin inherited the program from Joe Scott, who departed the program earlier this year. Scott and the school “mutually parted ways” following his suspension, which was tied to an investigation into his treatment of cadets.
What Is the Role of the AFAAC?
The Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation (AFAAC) is the entity involved in the athletic department’s operations. Because Pine remains under contract as an employee of the AFAAC despite his removal as director, the organization must now navigate the implications of his remaining employment. Nancy Hixson will step in on an interim basis at a time when the department is working to stabilize its leadership following the recent coaching changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is the current athletic director at the Air Force Academy? Nancy Hixson will step in on an interim basis.
- Is Nathan Pine still employed by the school? Yes, the academy confirmed that Pine remains under contract as an employee of the AFAAC.
- Why did Joe Scott leave the basketball program? The academy stated that Scott and the school mutually parted ways following a suspension related to an investigation into his treatment of cadets.
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