– Former McNeese Athletic Director Hemphill’s death at 68
– Breaking news: Former McNeese Athletic Director Hemphill passes away at 68.
BREAKING: Former McNeese Athletic Director Hemphill Passes Away at 68
Published 4:03 pm Thursday, February 15, 2024
- Former McNeese State athletic director Bruce Hemphill. (American Press Archives)
Former McNeese State Athletic Director Bruce Hemphill passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Sulphur. He was 68 years old.
Hemphill, who was hired as the ninth A.D. in McNeese history in August 2013, had a long and successful career in college sports administration spanning 24 years.
Originally from Sulphur, Hemphill considered the McNeese A.D. position his dream job. He had a deep connection to the program, having grown up in the area.
During his tenure at McNeese, Hemphill made significant contributions to the athletic department, with the most notable being the improvement of athletic facilities. He played a key role in the construction of both the baseball and softball stadiums, as well as the on-campus basketball arena, now known as the Legacy Center.
McNeese President Dr. Daryl Burckel expressed his sadness upon hearing the news and praised Hemphill’s dedication to the university.
However, Hemphill faced challenges during his time at McNeese, including academic issues within the football team and coaching changes. The Cowboys were put on academic probation by the NCAA and faced a one-year postseason suspension.
One of Hemphill’s significant achievements was hiring Heath Schroyer as the men’s basketball coach, who eventually succeeded him as the athletic director.
Schroyer shared his grief over Hemphill’s passing, describing him as a good man who loved McNeese and Southwest Louisiana.
Throughout his tenure, Hemphill battled health issues. He took a leave of absence in 2014 after being diagnosed with tonsil cancer and experienced a cardiac episode in 2019.
Before his time at McNeese, Hemphill had a decorated career as an administrator in Division I athletics. He served as a coach and recruiter at North Carolina State and South Carolina before becoming an Associate A.D. at the University of Wyoming.
In 2003, Hemphill returned to North Carolina before accepting the position at McNeese.
The funeral arrangements for Hemphill have not been announced yet.
Remembering Bruce Hemphill
Bruce Hemphill’s passing leaves a void in the McNeese community and the world of college sports administration. He will be remembered for his dedication to McNeese and his contributions to the improvement of athletic facilities. His love for the university and Southwest Louisiana was evident throughout his career.
As we mourn the loss of Bruce Hemphill, we extend our condolences to his family, friends, and the entire McNeese community. He will be greatly missed.
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– Former McNeese Athletic Director Hemphill dies
– Breaking: Former McNeese Athletic Director passes away at 68.
