BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — California State University, Bakersfield, announced Friday that Eric Bugby, the Director of Swimming and Diving, has resigned effective immediately. He was initially announced as director just over two months ago on August 7, 2025.
Acting Director of Athletics Dr. Sarah Tuohy will begin the search for a new coach for the men’s and women’s programs immediately.
Bugby joined CSUB in August 2025 after winning three Coach of the Year awards and four conference championships over six seasons as the Head Coach at Niagara University in New York. Bugby had nearly two decades of coaching experience prior to CSUB.
Bugby had experience as the Associate Head Coach at Lehigh University, an Assistant Coach for the University of Denver, and the Associate Head Coach for the United States Military Academy (Army West Point).
The previous director of swimming and diving, Chris Hasnen, announced his retirement in June after 17 seasons with the program.
Bugby’s resignation also follows the departure of Rod Barnes from the men’s basketball program in late September after 14 years, and the exit of Kyle Conder, CSUB’s Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics.
On Sept. 5, 2025, CSUB assistant men’s basketball coach Kevin Mays was arrested for allegedly trafficking a woman across three states. He is no longer with the university.
CSU Bakersfield faces an unrelated lawsuit over alleged harassment in the women’s softball program.
“As we prepare for the upcoming season, our commitment to our Roadrunner swimmers and divers remains unwavering. Our Athletics Department is working quickly to secure strong leadership that will guide the team to success this year and beyond,” Tuohy stated.
In light of the news, CSUB announced that its Nov. 1 season opener dual meet against the University of the Pacific has been postponed.