New WSU AD Jon Haarlow Unveils Bold Vision Ahead of Pivotal Fall for Cougars Athletics

On a chilly February evening in Pullman, Jon Haarlow wasn’t just stepping into Beasley Coliseum as Washington State’s interim athletic director — no, he was diving headfirst into the electric heart of Cougar spirit, decked out in a freshly grabbed crimson jersey. It wasn’t just a gesture; it was a statement. Having recently connected with a group of enthusiastic students across several games, Haarlow wasn’t content to stand on the sidelines. Instead, he chose to immerse himself right there in the roaring student section, embodying the passion and camaraderie that fuels WSU athletics. Fast forward just shy of two months, and Haarlow’s informal game-night camaraderie morphed into a formal appointment — he was named WSU’s 16th Athletic Director. Faced with what’s been dubbed “the most important fall in the history of WSU athletics,” as the Cougars prepare to face a transformed Pac-12 landscape, Haarlow is ready to lead with a blend of operational savvy, innovative revenue strategies, and a knack for dealmaking that university president Betsy Cantwell insists will be critical in the coming years. From deft hires like football coach Kirby Moore to navigating the complex world of College Football Playoff access for the Pac-12, Haarlow’s tenure promises a mix of grit, vision, and adaptability. Buckle up, Cougar fans — big things are on the horizon. LEARN MORE