The mystery surrounding Dan Hawkins' immediate future at Colorado has been resolved.
Colorado athletic director Mike Bohn announced Thursday morning that the embattled coach will return for his fifth season in 2010 despite four losing seasons. Speculation had mounted in recent weeks as the Colorado Buffaloes spiral at 3-8 – their third non-bowl season in four years.
But Bohn and Colorado chancellor Dr. Phillips DiStefano met with Hawkins and his team Thursday morning to inform them of the plans to allow Hawkins to continue on.
"Dan is our coach," Bohn said. "We continue to have candid, constructive discussions with each other, with campus leadership and with related constituents to review all aspects of the football program. We recognize the importance of continuity to reach our desired competitive results. We have made progress on many fronts, but fully realize the importance of improvement and growth of the program in all areas."
Hawkins has three more seasons remaining on a contract that runs through 2012. He originally signed a five-year deal in 2006 and then received an extension last fall.
The media in Colorado has speculated that Hawkins' $3 million buyout might have weighed in the decision to keep him around at least one more year. But now Bohn and DiStefano must convince the Colorado community to remain patient with Hawkins, who has faced considerable heat in Boulder for sticking with his son, Cody Hawkins, too long this season at quarterback before turning to Tyler Hansen.
Both men asked the community and fans to remain supportive.
"During this challenging time, it is essential for our collective fan base to stay with the program," Bohn said. "We all play a role in building the program on different levels. History has proven that our program is at its best when we channel collective passion, competitiveness, and hard work in the same direction."
The Buffaloes close out the regular season Friday against Big 12 North champion Nebraska.
Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Why can't you just put all Buffalo fans out of their misery?? Hawkins has done nothing to improve the team....
Face it. They suck, he sucks and his son sucks. All you have done is guranteed another bad season in 2010.
Good. Boomer Sooner!
He was abmuch better coach when he had his bowl haircut.
Mr. Mariotti I cant believe how negative your columns are. I love reading them because afterwards I know there is someone out there who can give you an address of someplace for anger management.
I think they kept him because:
1) They cannot afford the buyout - the football program already owes the university a few million. Plus the buyout of Hawkins on top of that.
2) Looks like there will be very few openings across the country - meaning the competition for the big names being thrown around (Turner Gill, Brian Kelly to name two) will create a high demand and high price. CU can't afford to compete with the schools that will most likely be looking for a new coach, esp. Neutered Dame.
Therefore as much as it might hurt CU, they are sticking with status quo. And it will hurt CU - wins/losses next year and recruiting.
THANK YOU GOD.....
--- AMERICA