Montana AD signs one-year deal

Kent Haslam has spent 15 years as the athletic director at the University of Montana, a tenure that is roughly double the average for Division I colleagues. He signed a new one-year contract in early September that keeps him in the role through this coming summer.

The agreement came into effect after Haslam’s previous deal lapsed in June. He remained in position due to a standard five-month notification clause found in board of regents contracts. His continued presence coincided with the start of a new university presidency.

Dr. Jeremiah Shinn began his term as president on July 1. During the months following Shinn’s arrival, Haslam’s future at the university was uncertain. The new contract clarifies his standing for the next academic year.

Haslam addressed the constant scrutiny that accompanies the position during an interview with MTN Sports this week. He stated that he does not find the criticism bothersome. He views feedback as a tool for improvement rather than a personal attack.

"If you get to a spot where you can't take advice, where you can't live with criticism, then you need to move on," Haslam said. He noted that much of the department’s work is invisible to the public eye. He believes the fan base deserves clearer explanations of the department’s goals and strategies.

The current sports season has presented challenges for the Grizzlies. The football team is currently on a two-game losing streak. The defense has drawn questions under first-year head coach Bobby Kennedy. Haslam acknowledged that the unit needs to improve significantly.

Other programs have also struggled. The soccer team is 3-11-1 under first-year coach Stuart Gore. The volleyball team is 6-16, a drop from their 17 victories last year. These results stand in contrast to the previous fall, when three of the school’s teams combined for the nation’s longest September winning streak.

Competition within the state has intensified. Montana State University won the NCAA Division I Football Championship last season. The Bobcats have also claimed 10 consecutive Brawl of the Wild all-sports trophies against the Grizzlies. This rivalry has raised expectations and increased the pressure on Haslam’s department.

Haslam plans to address a perceived lack of transparency with fans. He admitted that the department has not done enough to explain its financial needs and strategic direction. He intends to work with President Shinn to grow university resources that support athletics through philanthropy, ticket sales, and enrollment growth.

Recent online critiques of athletic funding have fueled discussion in the fan community. Haslam described these critiques as evidence of passion. He said the department must become more self-sufficient while maintaining a competitive edge. He aims to use the next 10 months to refine these communication efforts.