The University of Georgia has named an Athens native as its new athletic director.

Greg McGarity grew up around Bulldog athletics, starting his eventual career as a ball boy for former tennis coach Dan McGill.

McGarity is also a UGA graduate, tennis letterman, and sports administrator.

He most recently served as the #2 head of athletics at the University of Florida. During a news conference to announce his appointment, McGarity explained his managerial style.

“At the end of the day, the Athletic Director is a facilitator. They are one to be of help, to be of counsel, to be accessible 24-7. And that’s how I plan to operate.”

McGarity replaces Damon Evans, who resigned last month after a June 30 drunken driving arrest.

His starting salary will be 420-thousand dollars.

He received a five-year contract which begins September 1st .

McGarity is the associate athletic director at Florida, where he has worked since 1992.

Tags: Georgia, UGA, sports, Damon Evans, athletics director, Greg McGarity