STORRS, Conn. (AP) UConn's new athletic director says he considers the Huskies' caliber of play at the level of a Power Five school.
Dave Benedict, who has been serving as chief operating office at Auburn, was introduced Tuesday as the 12th athletic director at Connecticut.
He says he understands the perception of the school's conference affiliation is the biggest challenge for the athletic department. The school competes in the American Athletic Conference for national championships against leagues that generate more revenue.
Benedict says his job will be to maximize the resources of the school and find ways to grow its income. He says the conference is just one piece of that puzzle.
Benedict will earn $450,000 a year at UConn, with the chance for $100,000 annually in bonuses. He would also get another $250,000 if he stays five years.
