Chris Hill Reflects on Transformative Tenure as Utah's Athletic Director in New Memoir

Chris Hill, who served as the athletic director for the University of Utah from 1987 until 2018, has recently published a memoir titled "Thirty-one Years In The Front Row." The book, released just ahead of Father's Day, chronicles an era that reshaped Utah athletics into a respected powerhouse.

In the memoir, Hill recalls pivotal moments from his extensive career, including a memorable episode from 1989 when he was finalizing a contract for the legendary basketball coach Rick Majerus. To accommodate Majerus's unique communication style, Hill humorously included a clause urging him to use “friggin’” and “flippin’” instead of more colorful language. Hill still possesses the original yellow legal pad on which he drafted that contract.

His tenure was marked by significant developments, including the renovation of Rice-Eccles Stadium and notable achievements like an NCAA basketball championship game appearance and two undefeated football seasons that disrupted the BCS landscape. Hill's leadership also culminated in Utah's entry into the Pac-12, elevating the university's athletic profile.

Initially, Hill faced skepticism regarding his qualifications, having previously worked in various roles, including a house painter. “I was an Irish Catholic left-wing Democrat from New Jersey,” he recalls, reflecting on how unfamiliar he was with the local culture. However, a pivotal interview with school president Chase Peterson led to his appointment, a decision Hill acknowledges was a significant gamble at the time.

Throughout his memoir, Hill shares anecdotes from his time at Utah, including memorable interactions with prominent figures such as Larry H. Miller, owner of the Utah Jazz, and stories about the challenges and triumphs he faced, particularly with coaches like Majerus and Urban Meyer. "Thirty-one Years In The Front Row" is now available for purchase at chrishillstories.com and on Amazon.