Dallas ? Big 12 Conference commissioner Kevin Weiberg announced his resignation Thursday. Weiberg is leaving his post effective July 15, 2007, to become vice president of University planning and development with the Big Ten Network.

“There is never a perfect time to depart a position like this,” Weiberg said. “But I believe the timing is good in that the conference has completed its major short-term business agenda with television agreements contracted into the next decade, championship sites secured for the next four years and bowl agreements in place through the 2009 season. I am excited about the opportunity to be associated with this new television venture and to reconnect with the Big Ten universities where I previously served. But I am also sad to be departing from the Big 12 and so many good friends and colleagues.

“I am proud of the growth and progress of the Big 12 over the last nine years.”

The Big Ten Network plans to launch in August. The network, a joint venture of the Big Ten Conference and Fox Cable Networks, will cover Big Ten athletic and academic events.

The Big Ten and Mountain West have their own cable networks.

“Kevin has done a terrific job for the Big 12 Conference. I have known Kevin for more than 25 years and have always respected the work he’s done,” Kansas University athletic director Lew Perkins said. “He led the Big 12 through its formative years, and leaves the conference in great shape, poised well to face the future.”

Of Weiberg, KU men’s basketball coach Bill Self said: “I really enjoyed working with Kevin in my four years at Kansas. He did a very good job leading the Big 12. We wish him and his family the best and will definitely miss him. Thanks to Kevin, we have a great foundation in our league from which to build on.”

Football coach Mark Mangino noted: “Commissioner Weiberg displayed strong and steady leadership for the Big 12 Conference for the last nine years. While I am disappointed we are losing such a talented leader, we all wish him great success at the Big Ten Network.”

And from women’s basketball coach Bonnie Henrickson: I thought Kevin did a great job. I was always impressed with his professionalism, vision and patience. He’s a gentleman who didn’t make rash decisions. His leadership was fantastic and he was well respected in the league.”