Search for USC Athletic Director Called Unaffected

The hiring of John Robinson as USC football coach will not impede a search committee’s efforts to find a replacement for Mike McGee as athletic director, the committee chairman said Monday.

“It has been an awkward situation because of the football (hiring),” said Pat Haden, whose group is expected to recommend prospects to President Steven B. Sample by Jan. 15.

“I was surprised it happened so quickly. But as I think more about it, it had to be done. (And) if it was going to be done, it had to be done quickly. I don’t feel the athletic director’s search has been violated at all by that.”

Larry Smith, USC’s coach for six seasons, resigned under fire Friday, three days after the Trojans had been beaten by Fresno State in the Freedom Bowl. Robinson, who once coached the Rams and Trojans, was hired as Smith’s replacement Sunday.

Many had speculated that Smith’s status would be evaluated by the new athletic director, who is expected to be hired by the end of January. McGee, USC’s athletic director since 1984, announced Nov. 30 that he will take a similar position at South Carolina.

Haden said that school officials could not wait for the new athletic director to handle Smith’s situation because of recruiting deadlines.

Recruits can sign letters of intent Feb. 3. Jack Himebauch, Smith’s recruiting coordinator, said 50 recruits are scheduled to visit USC over the next four weekends.