Ron Rivera Reveals Vision for a Sustainable Winning Culture as Cal Football’s GM

Ron Rivera has returned to his alma mater, the University of California, Berkeley, with the aim of enhancing the football program’s stature. As the first general manager of Cal football, Rivera is set on aligning the football team’s success with the university’s academic excellence.

Vision for a Winning Culture

Rivera envisions a future where Cal football consistently ranks among the top 20 programs nationally. He also aspires for the men’s and women’s basketball teams to become regular NCAA tournament contenders. Rivera’s strategy involves leveraging existing university resources, such as data and technology, to benefit the athletics department.

Current State of Cal Football

Cal’s football team has experienced a prolonged period without significant victories. The program hasn’t clinched a national title since 1937 or a conference title since 1958. On the field, the team, led by head coach Justin Wilcox, holds a 4-2 record this season, and the Bears aim to surpass a long-standing eight-win barrier.

Collaboration with University Leadership

• Chancellor Rich Lyons shares Rivera’s commitment to improving Cal football’s profile, aiming for athletic excellence comparable to academic achievements.
• Lyons ended the academic year with five endowed sports and plans to fully endow three sports annually over three years.
• Rivera and Lyons believe that integrating athletics with academics can elevate the university’s profile.

Building a Sustainable Structure

Rivera is focused on establishing a sustainable winning culture. He believes the current resources and identity have been lacking, preventing the team from surpassing average performance levels.

Support and Investments

Rivera emphasizes the importance of donor support to foster growth and address the existing athletic spending cap of $14 million per year. Engaging donors and fans is vital to realizing Cal’s athletic potential. He discourages withholding support, as it hinders progress.

Looking Forward

Rivera remains optimistic about Cal football under coach Wilcox, crediting his NFL experience for insights into building a competitive team. He highlights the potential of standout freshman quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele as a key to attracting talent.

Conclusion

Ron Rivera’s return to Cal represents more than just a career opportunity; it’s a personal commitment to give back to the university that shaped him. With Rivera’s leadership and Lyons’ support, the integration of athletics and academics at Cal is set to reach new heights.