4:27 p.m.

The University of Maine has confirmed that Steve Abbott will be the interim athletic director.

“For me it’s a thrill to have the opportunity to try and help out a sports program I care so much about,” said Abbott.

UMaine President Robert Kennedy said he is thrilled things worked out with Abbott.

“If you were to assemble an ideal candidate, it would be Steve,” said Kennedy. “He has a legal background, is familiar with public exposure and press, has an athletic background as a student athlete and in an academic setting. And he certainly has familiarity and passion for Black Bear athletics. He was just an absolute constellation of characteristics you would look for.”
 

2:08 p.m.

The University of Maine has confirmed that Steve Abbott will be the interim athletic director.

In an announcement posted on its website, the university said Abbott will start on Sept. 6.

Stay tuned for more from the press conference from Jenn Menendez.

 

11:52 a.m.

University of Maine President Robert Kennedy will name an interim athletic director at a 2 p.m. press conference on campus today.

It is believed to be Steve Abbott, a former Republican candidate for governor and the former chief of staff for Maine Sen. Susan Collins.

The interim AD will succeed Blake James, who is leaving Maine for a position in athletics at the University of Miami.
James has held the post since 2006.

The interim AD is expected to hold the position for the duration of the academic year while a national search is under way for a permanent replacement.

Kennedy will announce his choice at Alfond Family Lounge at Alfond Arena.

 

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