THE SIDELINES : Oregon State Sports Head Let Go

CORVALLIS, Ore. — Oregon State athletic director Lynn Snyder announced today that he has been told by university president John Byrne that his contract with the school will not be extended after June 30.

Snyder told members of the department staff that he was making the announcement to preclude speculation about his position.

“My experience in these situations is it is to everyone’s benefit to be as up front as possible to avoid needless speculation,” Snyder said.

Snyder has been athletic director at the school since 1985, when he replaced Dee Andros. Before that, he served as athletic director at Marshall University. He also is former assistant athletic director at Illinois.