"Out with the old, and in with the new" is the fitting headline I thought as I got ready to write my own press release.

I have served as the University of Hawai`i Hilo Sports Information Director since the fall of 2016 until today, or likely until early in October. My replacement is Billi Derleth, former Vulcan softball player, former UHH sports information intern, and most recently a grad assistant at Concordia and summer intern with USA Softball.

It's a weird story to write for me, so I am writing it weird. After over 25 years as a professional in college athletics, producing literally thousands and thousands by-the-book press releases, I figured I earned the right do this one a bit different.

First off, about Billi....the southern California native is uber smart. This job is mind boggling at times with all the juggling of so many things, but she will pick it up with eagerness and savvy. She was a multi-winner of the UH Hilo Softball Scholar-Athlete award, and in 2018-19 was honored with the UH Hilo Sakai and Harue Wakakuwa Female Scholar Athlete of the Year Award. In other words, she is bright as the sun, and equally important, she has a great attitude and is eager to tackle anything. Officially, Billi is the interim SID for 2021-22, which means that at the end of the year, she can reapply for the job or move on to something really important like inventing something or curing a disease. 

Back to that headline. I am old, and am sorta retiring. I think so, but not sure actually. I do know that I am moving to the Oregon coast, where I have been mostly living anyway since COVID. My wonderful wife Shelly, who worked with me and others at UH Hilo until that stupid pandemic, landed a great job in the Pacific Northwest. Traveling back and forth to see her, balanced with Vulcan work, got to be too much. Mentioning it again, it's a lot for an elderly person to endure.

I have loved my time at UH Hilo. It is truly a special place, like no other. I have worked at three other universities during my career, so trust me when I say that UHH is unique. Special people and obviously one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I will miss the island and the people greatly.

But I also like being with my wife and our six grown children and five grand babies. They are all close by, including the two youngest that have moved back in with us (20 and 18 years old apiece). Happy wife, happy life, right?

You will see me around at a few more Vulcan home events, and if you are watching the video stream, that will be me on the play-by-play for a bit longer. I love that part of the job, along with writing game stories, getting to know the student-athletes and working with our staff. 

OK, now to the obligatory quotes.

From Billi: "I'm so excited to return to UH Hilo as a member of the athletic department. It is really special to be able to come back to a place that has been such a big part of my life. Returning back to UHH feels like coming home, and I'm so thankful to have this incredible opportunity."

From AD Patrick Guillen, who I believe has done a fantastic job of leading the Vulcan programs moving onward and upward in his six years: "We are very grateful to Russ for the amazing job he has done in the Sports Information Office here at UH Hilo in publicizing and promoting our student-athletes, programs and department.  Under his guidance he led the redesign of our website (twice), substantially increased our social media outreach, coordinated and implemented professional livestreaming of contests in the sports of soccer, volleyball, basketball, baseball and softball while also providing expert play-by-play on radio and online.  As an excellent sportswriter, Russ did an exceptional job increasing our exposure both locally and nationally.  He is a true professional that is well-liked and respected by all and will be missed. I wish nothing but the best for Russ and his Ohana as he begins this next chapter.  I know he is looking forward to spending more time with his family on the mainland, especially his wife Shelly, their grandchildren and of course his beloved San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Chargers.  A hui hou my friend and mahalo for all that you have done for us in Vulcan Athletics!"

From Russ Blunck: "Being at UH Hilo and living on the Big Island has been a very special time for Shelly and I. The thanks you's are numerous and I wouldn't want to accidentally miss anyone. So mahalo to all who make this place so special. We will miss you greatly."