WSU Fires Athletics Director Anne McCoy After 18 Months On Job: Report

Anne McCoy Anne McCoy. (WSU)

Washington State University has dismissed athletics director Anne McCoy less than two years into her tenure, ESPN reports.

McCoy’s removal was confirmed Wednesday, Nov. 12, marking a sudden shift in leadership for WSU Athletics. She had served in the role since mid-2024, including a three-month stretch as interim AD.

McCoy has been with the university since 2001 and was elevated to the athletics director position by former WSU president Kirk Schulz, who retired earlier this year.

According to ESPN, the move was not for cause, though no further explanation was provided.

Jon Haarlow, WSU Athletics’ Chief Operating Officer, is expected to assume the role of interim AD.

McCoy’s departure comes during a period of significant upheaval for Washington State. She helped steer the department through the collapse of the Pac-12 Conference and the program’s ongoing rebuild heading into the 2026 season.

Her tenure included the hires of head football coach Jimmy Rogers, now in his first season, and men’s basketball coach David Riley, who recently began his second.

Puget Press has reached out to WSU Athletics for comment.


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