April 2, 2008
SAN DIEGO - San Diego State football head coach Chuck Long announced the hiring Wednesday of Bob Lopez as the director of football operations.
Lopez, a native of Chicago, comes to Montezuma Mesa after serving as the director of football operations at UCLA the past five seasons. He replaces Brian Stark, who rejoined the Aztecs' coaching staff earlier this year as the team's tight ends coach.
"We are excited about the addition of Bob to our staff," Long said. "He has been in operations at a very high level. The San Diego State football program will benefit from his vast experience."
Lopez started as the director of football operations in January of 2003, where he oversaw the administrative side of Bruin football. He was responsible for preseason and bowl planning and recruiting administration. Lopez also served as the football liaison within the athletic department, managed official visits, worked as the liaison with pro scouts, oversaw the football budget and was the co-director for camps.
Lopez has a rich history in the sport, having spent 14 seasons coaching football at the high school, junior college and collegiate levels. He played quarterback at Illinois State from 1973-76, starting his final two seasons with the Redbirds. He earned his bachelor's degree from ISU in science, health and physical education in 1977, and three years later, earned his master's in education administration.
Lopez will begin his duties immediately.