Charlotte, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The University of Charlotte has officially terminated the contract of athletic director Mike Hill. This decision follows a review that pointed to the need for a new strategic approach amid ongoing challenges in collegiate athletics. Hill, who had been in the position for seven years, faced criticism over the performance of the football and men’s basketball programs. Jesh Humphrey will serve as interim athletic director as the university looks for a permanent replacement. Hill’s departure is marked by a significant buyout clause of $2.2 million.
Charlotte has terminated the contract of athletic director Mike Hill effective immediately, as announced by the university. This decision follows a review period that concluded with what was described as a need for a “new approach and renewed strategic foundation” in the face of challenges within the current landscape of higher education athletics. The announcement comes just 13 months after Hill signed a four-year contract extension.
Jesh Humphrey, vice chancellor for institutional integrity and general counsel, will take over the athletic department on an interim basis while the university begins the search for Hill’s permanent replacement.
During his seven years as athletic director, Hill oversaw a Charlotte 49ers football program that posted a record of 26-47 and a men’s basketball program with a record of 90-91. Currently, the Charlotte 49ers football team holds a record of 1-5 for the 2024 season under head coach Tim Albin, whom Hill hired in hopes of revitalizing the program.
Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber acknowledged Hill’s various contributions to the athletics department, including aiding the 49ers’ transition to the American Conference. However, the decision to release him stemmed from ongoing challenges, which included criticism from fans and alumni regarding performance in football and men’s basketball.
Hill’s tenure was not without its successes, including the hiring of coaches for both football and men’s basketball, yet results were inconsistent. Notably, he brought in Tim Albin following the dismissal of Biff Poggi and Will Healy, each of whom faced their own difficulties. In men’s basketball, Hill hired Ron Sanchez, who managed to lead the team to a CBI postseason title, but with an overall subpar record. Assistant coach Aaron Fearne served as interim coach after Sanchez’s departure, yielding mixed results in his initial seasons.
In his farewell statement, Hill expressed appreciation for the university’s leadership, coaches, student-athletes, and staff, noting his intent to continue supporting the 49ers’ teams in the future. Hill is entitled to a buyout clause of $2.2 million due to his termination. The upcoming search for a new athletic director is aimed at bringing fresh perspectives and strategies, as the university navigates an evolving landscape in collegiate athletics.
Hill faced mounting challenges during his leadership, including pressure from alumni and fans over the lack of success in key programs. He defended the athletic department’s commitment to non-revenue sports, which include baseball, soccer, and track and field, despite calls for greater focus on football and men’s basketball. As the Charlotte 49ers move forward, the focus will be on rebuilding the athletic programs and aiming for greater competitive success.
FAQs
- What led to Mike Hill’s termination as athletic director?
- The decision was attributed to “careful deliberation” and the need for a “new approach and renewed strategic foundation” in light of the evolving landscape of higher education athletics.
- Who is overseeing the athletic department in the interim?
- Jesh Humphrey, vice chancellor for institutional integrity and general counsel, will oversee the department on an interim basis.
- What were the records of the football and men’s basketball programs during Hill’s tenure?
- The Charlotte 49ers football program had a record of 26-47 and the men’s basketball program had a record of 90-91 during Hill’s tenure.
- What is the current record of the Charlotte 49ers football team for the 2024 season?
- The Charlotte 49ers football team is currently 1-5 for the 2024 season.
- What will happen to Mike Hill’s contract after his termination?
- Mike Hill has a buyout clause of $2.2 million should he be terminated without cause.
- What was Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber’s position on Hill’s contributions?
- Chancellor Gaber praised Hill for his commitment and various contributions to the athletics department, including helping the program join the American Conference.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Termination Date | Effective immediately |
| Interim Oversight | Jesh Humphrey |
| Football Program Record | 26-47 |
| Men’s Basketball Record | 90-91 |
| Current Football Record (2024) | 1-5 |
| Buyout Clause | $2.2 million |
| Chancellor’s Acknowledgment | Praised Hill’s contributions |
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: Charlotte Fires Athletic Director Mike Hill
- The Charlotte Post: Mike Hill Out as Charlotte 49ers Athletics Director
- Charlotte Observer: Charlotte 49ers Release Athletic Director Mike Hill
- Wikipedia: College athletics in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Sports
Author: HERE Charlotte
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