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BERKELEY, Calif. — Ron Rivera spent more than three decades in the NFL and had opportunities to return to the sideline as an assistant when a more intriguing option came his way.
Rather than mentor a first-time NFL coach, Rivera leaped at the chance to return to his alma mater to help revive the football program at California. Rivera was officially hired as the first general manager for the Cal football team after the move officially was approved by the UC Regents.
“This is an opportunity to come home and give back,” Rivera said. “The university has given me so much in my lifetime. It was kind of the launching pad that got me going into the direction that I did as far as playing professionally and ended up being an NFL coach and altogether 36 years involved in the NFL. … I’m looking for another challenge, another opportunity. But where better than to come home to the university and give back.”
Rivera will report directly to chancellor Rich Lyons in the newly created role. Head football coach Justin Wilcox will continue to report to athletic director Jim Knowlton, who also reports to Lyons.
Rivera said he will be involved in “every aspect” of the football team from going to practices, working closely with Wilcox and his assistants and relating with the players, many of whom aim to follow his trajectory to the NFL.
Rivera’s role will also focus on revenue generation, fundraising and engaging with alumni and donors to generate more interest and support for the program.
“Those folks have been by us some for so many years,” Rivera said. “I know they’ve been tough, lean years. But you know what? It’s time to change that. We have an opportunity to change that. But we have to do it together. Just because I’m here doesn’t mean anything. The…
Source link : https://www.nbcsports.com/college-football/news/cal-hires-former-nfl-head-coach-ron-rivera-to-be-gm-of-football-program
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Publish date : 2025-03-21 17:36:00
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