Kathleen “Rocky” LaRose’s retirement in 2013 led to Barnes’s promotion to senior associate athletic director and senior woman administrator. In her role, she oversees the internal operations of all 20 sports and support programs, including the C.A.T.S. student-athlete services. LaRose was a pioneer in women’s athletic administration who, like Barnes, began as a UA softball player. LaRose served as the UA’s last interim athletic director, in 2010.
She replaced a legend
University of Arizona deputy director of athletics Kathleen "Rocky" LaRose says her goodbyes as she makes her rounds through the coaching offices in McKale Center during her last full day on duty Oct. 8, 2013, in Tucson, Ariz. After more than 30 years spent in McKale Center, LaRose is retiring this week.
Erika Hanson Barnes was named the Wildcats’ interim AD on Monday.
