TUCSON, Ariz. – University of Arizona Vice President and Director of Athletics Dave Heeke has announced the promotion of Dr. Alex Auerbach as Arizona Athletics' Director of Clinical and Sport Psychology. Auerbach, who joined the athletics department in July of 2018, has been an integral part of Arizona's mental health and sport performance services.

"Dr. Auerbach has been a key component to the wellness and championship performance of our student-athletes," said Vice President and Director of Athletics Dave Heeke. "With our focus on providing the best student-athlete experience for all Wildcats, Dr. Auerbach's important work is paramount to the success of our athletics department. We are excited to promote Dr. Auerbach to lead this vital part of our mission as we develop Wildcats for life."

In his new position, Auerbach is responsible for directing and providing mental health services and sports performance consultations to student-athletes. He will also consult and collaborate with coaches and sports programs regarding issues related to sport performances as well as provide counseling services for staff.

Auerbach, an alum and Wildcat who earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona, arrived in Tucson after finishing his doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of North Texas with a concentration in sport and performance psychology. His dissertation at North Texas was on the impact of grit, mindfulness and achievement goal orientation on sport anxiety and performance.

With a ride range of professional experience, Auerbach has worked with athletes at the professional and collegiate levels. He worked with the Washington Wizards as a consulting psychologist for the NBA Combine as well as with student-athletes at North Carolina, TCU and North Texas.  Auerbach has also played a key role in building Arizona Athletics Diversity and Inclusion programs, commencing in the winter of 2018.