University of Wisconsin athletic director Barry Alvarez formally announced his intention to retire at the end of June. Alvarez transformed the athletic program in his 31 years there.

Tuesday in Madison, Alvarez explained the timing of the decision.

“I just think it’s time," said Alvarez. "I’m 74 years old. I’ve had a good run. It’s just time to pass the baton. I’m healthy, I have some things I want to do, I have grandkids I want to follow and support. It was just time.”

Alvarez took over a dormant Badgers football program in 1990 and turned it into a three-time Rose Bowl champion and perennial Big Ten contender.

He stepped down to become the full-time athletic director after the 2005 season. He succeeded in both positions, despite the very different skill sets required.

“It’s a little different, and I’ve told athletic directors this: you think you have stress? You think your job is tough? An athletic director’s job is very difficult. But guys, it doesn’t even come close to comparing to the stress and pressure that a head coach has,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez looked back on his tenure at Wisconsin with pride.

“It’s very satisfying. To see that much success, it just makes me feel proud. I just want to bust my button I’m so proud of what my people have accomplished.”

UW Chancellor Rebecca Blank says a national search will be conducted to replace Alvarez—who privately has made it clear that one of his former players, deputy athletic director Chris McIntosh, would be a good choice.

Publicly, Alvarez didn’t want to say too much. “People know how I feel about Mac. I feel like my responsibility somewhat was to have someone prepared. He’ll go through the process.”