Vice President and Provost James Strong announced Tuesday that Gabriel Bolton was appointed interim athletics director effective today.

Bolton replaces Milt Richards, who resigned to take a similar position at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia.

"I'm humbled by the opportunity to lead such a wonderful group of student-athletes, coaches, and staff. I would like to thank President Shirvani and Provost Strong for giving me this opportunity," Bolton said.

Bolton has a distinguished record as head coach of women's soccer for the past seven years, and he also served as the interim director of student Leadership & Development at CSU Stanislaus in 2008-2009. In addition to Bolton's experience in athletics, he possesses a legal background and earned a degree of juris doctor at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.

"I believe his combined athletics, labor representative and interim director experience provides him with a unique perspective, and I expect that he will capably lead the Department of Athletics as we search for a permanent director," said Strong.

Bolton led the Warriors women's soccer team to a CCAA championship and advanced to the NCAA tournament for the first time this season.