Florida AD Scott Stricklin Secures $250K Raise, New Role
BREAKING: Florida Gators athletic director Scott Stricklin has just secured a significant raise, bringing his annual salary to over $2 million as part of a new three-year contract extension that will keep him in his role through October 2030. This move comes shortly after the Gators achieved their third national championship in men’s basketball, underscoring Stricklin’s pivotal leadership in Florida’s athletic success.
The extension, officially announced today following a public records request by multiple media outlets, includes a unique provision that positions Stricklin as a “special assistant to the athletic director” for five years after his official tenure. This semi-retirement role, akin to that of former AD Jeremy Foley, aims to ensure a smooth transition as the university prepares for new leadership.
Under Stricklin’s previous contract, he earned $1.8 million annually, but this new deal reflects a $250,000 increase, with potential bonuses boosting his earnings to as much as $2.175 million per year. The arrangement was approved by outgoing interim president Kent Fuchs, and new interim president Dr. Donald Landry will oversee Stricklin’s future responsibilities, which are designed to support rather than interfere with the incoming athletic director’s authority.
Stricklin’s role will also include a compensation package of $100,000 annually for the duration of his special assistant position, along with essential benefits, access to the athletic association’s aircraft valued at up to $55,000, and office support. Stricklin has been a key figure in transforming Florida’s athletic landscape, leading the institution to an impressive tally of 13 national titles and 44 conference crowns since his hiring in 2016.
His contributions extend far beyond championships. He has overseen the opening of state-of-the-art facilities, including an $85 million football complex and a $65 million baseball stadium. Plans are underway for a monumental $1 billion renovation to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, famously known as “The Swamp.”
Stricklin has also been instrumental in navigating the complex changes in college sports, including revenue sharing and the name, image, and likeness (NIL) payouts, ensuring Florida remains competitive. He played a crucial role in hiring current football coach Billy Napier, who recently propelled the team to a notable ranking of 13th in the latest AP college football poll, and men’s basketball coach Todd Golden, whose team clinched the championship in his third season.
With such a substantial raise and a forward-looking role, Stricklin’s impact on Florida athletics will continue to resonate as the university embarks on new ventures. As the search for a permanent president begins early next year, all eyes will be on how Stricklin’s legacy shapes the future of the Gators.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Florida Gators athletic program continues to evolve under Stricklin’s leadership.
