Mike Bilbow Obituary: University of Georgia’s Assistant Athletic Director for Digital & Production Dies Suddenly – Atlanta, GA, April 6, 2025
The University of Georgia and the wider collegiate athletics community are mourning the unexpected death of Mike Bilbow, the Assistant Athletic Director for Digital and Production with the UGA Athletic Association. Mike passed away on Saturday, April 6, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia. His passing has left a profound void not only within the university’s media and athletics departments but also across the national college sports landscape, where he was widely respected for his visionary leadership in sports media.
Mike Bilbow played a pivotal role in shaping the digital footprint of Georgia Bulldogs athletics. As the head of UGA’s digital and production initiatives, he oversaw all facets of content creation—ranging from in-stadium video board operations to digital streaming, television production, social media, and web content. His dedication to engaging fans through cutting-edge storytelling helped elevate UGA Athletics to a national media standard.
This marked Mike’s second tenure with the University of Georgia. From 2009 to 2014, he served as Executive Director of New Media for IMG College, where he led the original digital content creation team for UGA—setting the foundation for what has since become one of the most engaging athletic media operations in the NCAA.
Between his two UGA tenures, Mike brought his talents to the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, where he was part of the institution’s opening executive team. As Vice President of Content and Production, he led development on all exhibits, interactive experiences, guest services, and IT infrastructure. Under his guidance, the Hall of Fame garnered national recognition for its innovation and immersive fan experiences.
A proud graduate of Oklahoma State University (1991), Mike earned a Bachelor of Science in Radio/Television/Film with a focus on News and Public Affairs. Before his transition to college athletics, he spent years in television news as a producer, writer, and videographer—skills that later became integral to his success in digital sports media.
Mike was known by colleagues and friends for his creativity, professionalism, and infectious enthusiasm for storytelling. His passion wasn’t just about sports—it was about connecting people through shared experiences and showcasing the human spirit behind every game, player, and moment.
He resided in Watkinsville, Georgia, with his beloved wife Molly and their two sons, Jackson and Connor. Mike also shared his home with his father, Jack. Family was the cornerstone of his life, and he often spoke about the joy he found in being a husband, father, and son. His warmth and wit left lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to know him.
The University of Georgia has not yet announced official funeral arrangements but has expressed its deep sorrow at Mike’s passing. University officials, fellow staff members, student-athletes, and fans across the country have taken to social media to honor Mike’s legacy and contributions to college athletics.
In lieu of flowers, the Bilbow family asks that donations be made in Mike’s memory to initiatives supporting student media, digital storytelling in athletics, or the College Football Hall of Fame.
Mike Bilbow will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking work but for the kindness, mentorship, and spirit he brought to every project. His impact will be felt for generations in both the Bulldog Nation and the world of collegiate sports media.
For tributes, inquiries, or memorial updates, please contact the University of Georgia Athletic Association.
