Neil Hooper, University of King’s College Athletics Director has chosen to retire from his role after 33 years of service.
Upon Neil joining King’s in 1991 as the Athletics Director and Men’s Basketball Coach the Blue Devils saw the beginning a series of championships for men’s soccer. Under Neil’s direction, the department saw much success winning several conference championships and developing one of the top badminton programs in the nation – 2024 marked six straight championship badminton wins combined with two gold medals at CCAA nationals for the second year in a row.
Neil is leaving the Blue Devils as they celebrate a year of unprecedented success. In 2023-24, King’s had a banner year – securing four ACAA titles in men’s soccer, women’s volleyball, women’s basketball, and badminton. Blue Devils also secured three CCAA medals – two gold and a bronze for badminton.
Hooper has made countless contributions to the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association. He’s served on countless ACAA and CCAA committees over the years, with three separate terms as ACAA President. He’s been CCAA Men’s Basketball Convenor, ACAA Badminton and Men’s Basketball Convenor and Co-Chair of the 2017 CCAA Women’s Soccer National Championship, among other positions. In 2019 Hooper was named CCAA Athletic Director of the Year.
These accomplishments are a small summary of the impact that Neil has made during his time at UKC. Further details are available in his profile on the King’s website.
Neil's retirement began on July 1. UKC Athletics Coordinator, Trish Miles has assumed the role of Interim Athletics Director following Neil's departure. The process to recruit a permanent Athletics Director will begin in the coming year.
UKC Blue Devils, faculty, staff, alumni and students are invited to celebrate Neil's service and retirement July 4th, 5-7:30 p.m. at the HMCS King's Wardroom. Remarks begin at 5:45 p.m. at The Wardroom. There will be light refreshments, cash bar and some game day munchies!