University of Tennessee at Chattanooga athletic director David Blackburn, considered a candidate for the same position at the University of Tennessee, released a statement Wednesday about the position, which was awarded to former Kansas State athletic director John Currie.
Blackburn is a 1990 graduate of Tennessee and spent the past two decades in various administrative roles within the university.
"After hearing the announcement of the new Director of Athletics at the University of Tennessee, I want to let everyone know I wish them well. It is no secret that my name was mentioned as a possible candidate, but I did not interview with the new chancellor or the search committee.
"I remain laser-focused on the progression of Chattanooga Athletics and equipping our student-athletes for continued growth and success, in the classroom, in competition and in the community."
Blackburn, along with former Vols football coach Philip Fulmer, had each been named as a possible successor for former athletic director Dave Hart, who is officially retiring on June 30, 2017.
Contact Gene Henley at ghenley@timesfreepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @genehenleytfp.